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Five Acts 



Translated from the Ger- 
man of Ferdinand, Lassalle 
By 

DANIEL D E LEON 



"The highest power for the favorable treatment 
of a subject still remains with poetry." — A. von 
Humboldt. 



NEW YORK LABOR NEWS COMPANY 

New York 



Copyright 1904, by the 
New York IvAbor News Co. 



©GI.D 20475 



TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE 



It is not the grandeur of its conception, nor its mechanical per- 
fection, nor yet the sublimity of its diction, in short, it is not its 
literary merits that have driven me — for driven I was — to under- 
take the translation of Lassalle's "Franz von Sickingen." In all 
these features English literature is abundantly wealthy. Happy he 
who has the taste and time to drink at that rich fount. Translations 
into English , even the best, would be a wasteful taking of coal to 
Newcastle. 

Franz von Sickingen was a distinguished German knight — distin- 
guished in wealth, in character, in genius and in arms — on that bor- 
derland of the world's events when the scroll of the Middle Ages was 
being rolled up, and the scroll of Modern History began to unroll. 
Sickingen's stature is almost legendary. His mind and heart were 
fired by the rays of the rising sun. The aim he set to himself, and 
which he devised jointly with Ulrich von Hutten, had he succeeded, 
would have saved Germany the devastating Thirty Years' War, unified 
the nation along a direct and less thorny path than it was forced to 
travel, and materially changed the history of Europe for the better 
of mankind. He failed. He had a purpose firm, but the rock on which 
he suffered shipwreck was to fail to make his purpose known. Im- 
possible as it was to conceal his purpose from the detection of the 
keen instinct of the usurpatory elements to whom his success meant 
destruction, nothing was easier than its concealment from the masses, 
to whom his success meant salvation. Assailed by the former, who 
penetrated his designs, and left in the lurch by the latter, to whom his 
designs remained a secret, Sickingen went down. 

In these our own days of transition, when individuality — before 
taking the imminent leap that will enable it to bloom as never before 
in the history of man — is reduced to a minimum; when the modern 
machine-compelled interdependence of man upon man — that is the 
earnest of civilized manhood — has for its present effect the nipping of 
self-reliance; when the present vastness of wealth producible — that 
is the pledge of a social system where, untrammeled by the brute's 
requirement of arduous toil for physical existence, the intellect can 
freely spread its wings — now bears the ashen fruit of tongue-tying the 
intellectual lest the physical part of man pay the penalty; — in such 
days as these no tactical maxim of conduct has the value of that 
which this tragedy of Lassalle's preaches, whose observance it enjoins, 



iv. 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



and whose neglect it superbly warns against. With a majestic his- 
toric setting, draped in poetic elegance, and planted upon a pedestal 
of golden maxims that converge upwards, and illumine the principle 
itself, "Franz von Sickingen" raises in thrilling yet statuesque solemn- 
ity the principle — not merely to have a purpose firm, but also to dare 

tO MAKE IT KNOWN. 

So demoralizing on the will are the economic conditions that this 
generation is traversing, and so vital is the lesson in the tragedy of 
"Franz von Sickingen" to expedite the transition from the present to 
the better era that is beckoning our race, that I undertook the ardu- 
ous task of rendering this work into English, undeterred even by 
the additional difficulty of preserving, as needs had to be preserved, 
the metrical garb — blank verse, or unrhymed meter, of standard lines 
of iambic pentameter — in which the original is decked. On this score 
my apprehensions were silenced by the thought that the best part 
of poetry is ever translatable, and will shine even through an im- 
perfect rendition, while the substance remains in unimpaired lustre. 

To "Franz von Sickingen" pre-eminently applies what, on the 
occasion of other translations I have said before regarding other works 
— this work deserves the broader field of the Socialist or Labor Move- 
ments of the English-speaking world, hereby afforded to it; and in- 
versely, the Socialist or Labor Movements of the English-speaking 
world, entitled to the best, and none too good, that the Movement 
produces in other languages, can not but profit by the work, hereby 
rendered accessible to them. 



New York, April 9, 1904. 



DANIEL DE LEON. 



DRAMATIS PERSONAE 



Emperor Charles V. 

Elector Ludwig, of the Palatinate, Palsgrave and Duke. 
Richard von Greifenklau, Archbishop and Elector of Treves. 
Philip, Landgrave of Hesse. 
The Papal Cardinal-Legate. 

Hans Renner, Imperial Minister and Councilor. 

Franz von Sickingen. 

Ulrich von Hutten. 

Count William von Furstenberg. 

Count Eitelfritz von Zollern. 

Fro win von Hutten, Grand?naster and Chamberlain of Elector- 

Archbishop Albrecht of Mayence. 
Knight Philip von Rudesheim. 
Knight Henrich von Schwarzenberg. 
Knight William von Waldeck. 
Knight Henry von Dhan. 



Knight von Falkenstein. 
Knight Harmuth von Kronberg. 
Knight Fritz von Sombreff. 
Knight Hilchen Lorch. 

Oekolampadius, Lutheran Chaplain in Sicking en's household. 
Balthasar Sloer, Sickingen 9 s private secretary and confidential man. 
Captain Joerg von Augsburg, Sickingen's master of ordnance. 
Jos Fritz, a peasant agitator. 
Marie, Sickingen's daughter. 
Count Solms. 

Kurt, an attendant of Sickingen. 

The Private Secretary of the Palsgrave Ludioig. 

A Knight of Treves. 

A Captain of the Treves Lancers. 

An Imperial Herald. 

A Herald in the service of Sickingen. 

An Inn-keeper. 

An Armor-bearer. 

A Physician. 

Two Messengers. 

Knights, lancers, monks, attendants, peasants, townsmen and wo- 
men of Treves. 



Knight Philip von Dalberg. 
Knight Wolf von Turckheim. 
Knight von Benningen. 




(The scene takes place during the years 1520 and 1523.) 



ACT I. 



Scene I. — A room in the castle of Ebemburg. 

Marie, folding away some needle-work, at which she was engaged. 
Balthasar, a man about sixty years of age, completely grey 3 but 
still in full vigor, and of clear, strong voice. 

Marie. I know not, Balthasar, my father is, 

For some time since, not cheerful as before. 

He, oft'ner than his wont, secludes himself. 

And then, when letters come, I find 

Most oft his brow with brooding clouds bedimmed. 
Balth. The consequence it is — you'll pardon me, 

My habit ever was to speak straight out — 

The consequence it is of his — own folly. 
Marie. How, Balthasar! Folly and my father? 

And is it right to say so to his daughter? 
Balth. My gracious maid, a full-fledged lass, 

You may well stand a word plain said. 

Besides, you know full well, though you his daughter be, 

You love not Franz more warmly than myself. 
Marie. {Reaching out her h<md to him with tenderness.) 

And that is true! You are a faithful servitor. 
Balth. A faithful servitor! What wonder! 

I could not to myself be true 

Were I aught else to him. When I was persecuted; 

When, lustful after power, the magistrate of Worms 

High-handed drove me out; 'gainst law and right 

Dispoiled me of all my goods, and into a beggar turned me; — 

Who was it that my quarrel then took up? 

In vain I cried to Emp'ror and to realm! 

The mighty city balked me everywhere: 

The Emp'ror needed it, and none dared venture 

To break with it on my account. 

Your father, then, I turned to in distress. 

My faith! That was a counselor at law! 

Another such the land does not contain! 

He took me up, cross-questioned my behavior, 



2 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



And when he saw that violence had been done me, 

He simply said these words: "Well, Balthasar, 

Sith not the pen may stead, be it then the sword!" 

And as Worms laughed at his petition, 

Refusing justice to my suit, 

And arrogantly threatened him 

With bans from Emp'ror and from realm, 

He took about ten thousand first-class reasons — 

Pikes, I mean, my gracious maid — and drew 

With them before the town of Worms, where he 

Began to "demonstrate" and to "distinguish." 

He knoweth how! 

So well did he "distinguish" that the walls receded. 

Nor Kaiser's anger, nor the danger himself ran 

Could frighten him to drop my cause. 

A scamp were he who such a favor could forget. 
Marie. You are a trusty, faithful soul! 
Balth. I thank you, gentle maid! — And yet, for all 

These reasons and so very many more, 

That to the knight bind fast my steady love, 

My love does not my old eyes blind 

To what I still must call — his folly. 
Marie. [Sportively.] Oh, now, I see you come back to th' assault; 

There's something, master, sits upon your heart. 

My father must, again, have had his way. [With comic pathos.] 

Well, then, before our throne set forth your plea. 

We ready are to hear you, faithful subject ! 

Right will be done to you! — On that 

Take our imperial word. 
Balth. You badger, 

Wanton girl! Yet all the same, 

Old Balthasar is quite in earnest. — You know, my noble maid, 
That Francis, France's king, has on your father 
Bestowed the marshal's staff? 

Marie. [Continuing her assumed rdle of grandeur.] 

We know as much. 

Balth. And do you know the manner how? 

Marie [As above but somewhat embarrassed.] No — Yes — partly! 

The cares of State have made us 

Almost forget the incident. 
Balth. [Aside.] The charming monkey! Truly, 

My grey hairs notwithstanding, I could kiss her. 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



[To Marie.] Now, hearken unto me: 
It was, then, when your father Lorraine's duke 
— The same who since became our ally — 
O'ercome by arms; — when, thereupon, 
For reasons highly just he warred 'gainst Metz, 
And others there, like I myself in Worms, 
Having been wronged, and having turned to him, 
And he with twenty thousand men 
On foot and twenty thousand horse 4 
Sat down before the place, and pressed it close, 
So close that the besieged patricians were 
Constrained to apologize and make redress — 
'Twas then that series of prowesses drew 
King Francis' eyes upon the knight, who, single-handed, 
Without ado, could muster up such armies 
As not himself the Emp'ror could bring up 
Without a mighty effort, and oft failed 
To fetch a-field. He sought 
To win him o'er; invited to Sedan 
The knight; sent thither Count La Mark* also 
The Duke of Bouillon and the Marquis of Fleuranges 
To lead him through half France 
With honors great, in princely style. 
At last they took him to Amboise, 
Where then King Francis held his court. 
And, then, indeed, the wild carouse began! 
The King behaved as tho', without the knight, 
He could not live : and at full court. 
Himself a golden chain around his neck he placed, 
And to the knight the marshal's staff delivered 
With his own hands! The grandees were constrained 
To act as if, for very love, they would devour him. 
Nor was their wonder slight 
At sight of Franz's cavalcade — 
Behind him rode for retinue, 
The choicest noblemen of Germany, 
The realm's most mighty Counts 
Far more illustrious than himself, 
Of houses far more ancient — him they followed, 
And built his noble guard. 
Marie. Us seems Sir plaintiff, that as yet 
'There is no cause for a complaint. 



4 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Balth. 
Marie. 



'Tis but the introduction! 



Please drop the introduction, 



And to the subject! The process lasts too long. 

Else from the court I must dismiss you! 

[Laughing.] And I have yet to see to dinner. 
Balth. To that our Bridget will attend. Young lady, 

You would not hold such language, had you seen 

The brilliant ladies at the French King's court. 
Marie. [Quickly.] Indeed? They're handsome, do you think? 
Balth. What houris, by my soul! 

And talk they did that our mouths 

Ran water. They all 

Were wonderfully drilled, and constituted 
The heavy ordnance wherewith King Francis 
The steel-cased knight bombarded; — 
For, sweet maid, our neighbors fashion 'tis 
That women stand, no less than men, 
At service of their King! But all that was, 
As with me now, so also with King Francis, 
The introduction only. Kaiser Max was old, 
His tribute soon to Nature would be due, 
That was the point objective. King Francis speculated 
Upon our crown imperial. Aye, already 
The Palatine and him of Treves he had, 
But well he knew that Franz, your father, 
Tho' not the peer of any of the sev'n, who, 
At Frankfort, hold the privilege, 
Yet when it comes t'elect, would cast a vote 
As strong as all the seven put together. 
Accordingly, when Kaiser Max his eyes did close, 
King Francis sent a special envoy here 
To Franz, the knight. — You surely could not 
That ornate Frenchman from your mind have lost 
Who then arrived at our Ebernburg? 
Marie. [Laughing.] Oh! whether I recall him! Velvety 
And silken, gold-brocaded was his jacket. 
I would have feared the man to touch 
For fear I spoiled his gear. Indeed, 
He was, of men, the handsomest I ever saw, 
If he but held his tongue! When that he wagged — 
Then all was o'er! Such compliments he paid me — 
More pointed far than were his pointed shoes, 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



So sugar-sweet, it was no easy thing 

For me to keep from laughing outright in his face. 

Poor man, to bring his whole supply 

Of monkey-tricks from Paris 

And waste them here! I gladly would 

Have packed up for him all his costly sweets, 

And kept him free from loss with us! 
Balth. Although the man displeased you, miss, — 

He was of mighty lineage and distinguished house. 

What mattered what he spoke — 

To please you he'd have held his tongue. 

You two a stately couple would have made. 
Marie. Oh, Balthasar! On that you're inexpert. 

With us, the women, so the saying goes, 

The soul sits in the eye. May be. I do not know 

And yet I know A — 

It sits upon the tongue of man. 
Balth. Indeed? 

Have you your studies made in that? 

Perchance experience gathered on the head? 
Marie. [Blushing.] Oh, Balthasar, how you run on! 

I know you understand me well enough, 

But force yourself to misinterpret me. 

The man, I mean, whom noble thoughts possess, 

Makes himself, by his own words known to us. 

The how, as well and more than what he says, 

Reveals to us the inner soul of man. 
Balth. Hm! Hm! 

I see! — At Albrecht's a the Elector's Mayence court, 

Where you a while sojourned, 

Where arts and sciences bloom luxuriantly, 

Oh, there, I see, the thoughts of these new times 

Have made their lodgment in your head. But yesterday, 

A German knight knew but about stout blows: 

They now must also have stout minds. — Well, well, 

I blame, you not, young lady. Myself, 

Am heart'ly pleased to see the change! 

And fitting 'tis that you, 

The daughter of Franz Sickingen — 

The but too ready shield of the new stream — 

Should think like that. Nor is it strange 

Your father's standard should inspirit you — 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN". 



For thought and speech are equal great with him.. 

The Marquis of Fleuranges, acquainted with 

The leading men of Germany as well as France, 

Where elegance of speech is sedulously nursed, 

Said once to me, that never* all his life, 

So powerful an orator he met. 

Indeed, the heat of inspiration on, 

There flows a stream of lava from his tongue, 

And carries all along with mighty rush. 

But, otherwise^ he's rather taciturn, 

Keeps house, let's others do the talking. 
Marie. So, Balthasar* I far prefer to see you 

When you my father praise, than when 

You scold at him. 
Balth. Quite so, and thereby 

I am reminded to resume the thread of my 

Complaint. Well, then, the Frenchman, who 

Such sweet civilities bestowed on you — 

To Franz himself brought others still more sweet, 

From France's King, and much more solid ones withal. 

Full thirty thousand kronen-thalers cash, 

Besides, for life as yearly revenue, 

Eight thousand thalers more. 

Well patented on land and men, he proffered, 

If Franz but promised faithful to support 

Him at the Imperial vote then pending; — 

And should he still want more, he sent him word, 

He would not haggle on the diff'rence. 

But Franz, misguided by his foolish 

Adherence to King Charles, as Max's kin, 

Rejected flatly ev'ry offer — 

And wrote upon the spot 

To Charles, the proffered trade to apprize him of! 
Marie [Impetuously.] Fie! — Shame upon you, my old Sloer, — 

Oh, never from you, had I thought to hear 

My father blamed for his declining 

To sell the crown abroad, and then, at that, 

For dirty gold! 
Balth. Do not bite me, noble girl — 

How Franz's blood wells up in this young child — 

It was not that that I would blame him for. 

Considered well, though of Max a grandson, 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



The young King Charles himself is none of ours. 

Per contra,, did King Francis at the time 

Through learned men prove everywhere 

He was a German, tracing his descent 

From th' Emp'ror Charles the Great. — 'Tis odd! 

No sooner is th' Imperial crown at stake, 

When "Germans" all proclaim themselves. But when 

The German realm is in distress — then 

The kinship none recalls! 

Now, then, admit yourself the difPrence null 

There is between King Francis and King Charles — 

They're aliens both. The only diff'rence lies 

In ancestors a brace. 

That differ ence, meseems, the many thaler s 
Could amply have planed down. 
Still — 'tis not that I'm driving at. 
So slight a foolish act your father 
Soon I'd pardon for. Broad enough are his estates; 
Needs not King Francis 5 coin. And, in the end, 
'Twould be the same to him whether the German throne 
Was filled with Francis or with Charles. All one! 
No, young lady, no; a far more foolish act 
Is that I blame him for. — 
To slip by he allowed a juncture, that 
Perhaps, may never more return again. 
If he alert had been to his advantage, 
He would quite otherwise have done! 
Marie. What was it then ? 

BaWi. Young lady, this it was: 

Perchance I yet may see the hour for 

Amends — perchance it may not strike 

Until old Balthasar is dead! 

If so, I bind it now upon your soul 

To stir him up. Some day, perhaps, your lead 

He'll follow readier than Balthasar's to-day. 

Athwart the wrappage of your mirthful mind 

The heroine's soul I long have spied, 

That swift is seized by great designs, 

And steadily pursues them — will develop further! 
Marie. [With comic pathos.] 

Upon that heroine's soul, as yet to me 

Unknown, detected by yourself, 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



I swear — 

What you demand, fulfilled shall be ! 
With all the easier conscience, 
Seeing — that I grasp not your intent. 
Balth. Now, listen! — When, at last, the time had come 
For balloting at Frankfort, and 
The choice for Emp'ror trembled in the scales, 
Your father gathered — in the interest of Charles, 
And pressure on the pious realm's Electors — 
An army of more than twenty thousand men; 
Marched with it upon Frankfort; and 
He comfortably sat him down before 
The walls. It was a pleasure to behold 
How Franz the whip-hand seized and held. 
E'en our Elector Palatine — the only Prince, 
Besides th' Elector of Mayence, who loves the knight — 
Protested, but in vain. 

Now, see! Your father held the dice in hand. 
All to his fiddle then were forced to dance. 
They lay there at his will and mercy! 
Both nation and nobility were with him — 
Indeed, it had been for their best — and at 
His own disposal stood an army ready 
To be torn to pieces for his sake! Oh, 
How I vainly argued then ! Th' Electors, 
Aye, all the seven, had he in a bunch — 
[Making the motion.] 

Flap— 

Franz. [Behind the scenes.] Feed well the nag; 

He earned his fodder, well to-day! 
Marie. [Jumping up.] Keep still, my father! 

Scene II. 

The former; Franz von Sickingen. 

Franz. [Stepping in briskly.] Good morning, child! 

Marie. [Running to him and falling on his neck.] Beloved father! 

Franz. [Contemplating her.] You charmer! Lovely child! Give me 

A kiss, you sprightly thing! 
Marie. [Kissing him.] And gladly, too! You seem 

To-day in happy mood. How glad that makes me! 
Franz, I had a brisk and early canter o'er the fields; — 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



The wind blew fresh upon me. 

Good mornings Balthasar! 
Balth. I thank your honor! 

Franz. I heard you stiffly perorating. 

No doubt you did yourself full justice, and 

As usual, laid it hard upon me. 
Marie. [Roguishly.] On that head, father, not this once 

Could you with justice chide him. We 

Were playing court, Sir. Balthasar 

Accused you, and I — I was the Kaiser! 
Franz. [Laughing.] My old man, Sloer, of that tribunal, 

Before which you as my accuser stand, 

'Twere hard that evil came to me. 
Balth. You err, Sir! Oh! if the tribunal I but knew 

That you to alter had the pow'r — full soon 

You'd see me your accuser! I was just engaged 

In strongest strokes to tax you 

With all the seven mortal sins, that I 

So oft, have vainly combated in you — 

Misplaced magnanimity; excessive 

And idle abnegation, where, hand in hand, 

Your own advantage and the common weal 

Keep step; confiding, as though others, like you were;— 

Besides, what all the sins may be, that, yet 

Some time may be avenged upon you. 
Franz. Do I interpret right? Why, Balthasar, 

It looks to me, with yonder maid you have 

Been chopping politics. Art not ashamed, 

You grey-head ? 
Balth. Not at all ! There's Margaret of Parma 

She is a regent, truly as wise, Sir, 

As any Prince in Europe, now alive. 

Whence had she learned as much, 

Had it not timely in her been drilled? 
Franz. Yes, Balthasar, I see it clearly — with you 

No man will ever be found right. 

I know, a councilor imperial 

Was lost in you. 
Balth. [With emphasis.] Yours, Sir, the fault 

If none as yet I am. 
Franz. Oho! I see 

You still are aiming high. 



10 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



[Sits down.] To something else! 
The learned, worthy Reuchlin, 
Of science the restorer. 
Has written me a second letter. 
The parsons of Cologne, that pack in black, 
Those tonsured panters after burning pyres, 
They still are bent upon molesting him. 
They annoy and tantalize the man ; refuse 
To indemnify him for the process' costs ; 
Prefer to appeal to Rome; and contemplate 
To see him yet condemned a heretic! — 
Now, write to the provincial of Cologne: 
Franciscus humbly sends his greetings, 
Is at his patience's end — insists on peace. 
I also wish you write them clearly — 
Tell them I hope at last they hear, 
If not, I'll have to use my speaking trumpets, 
You know — 

Balth. I understand you, Sir; I understand you fully! 
I know your speaking trumpets! Quite unique! 
That man were deaf who could not hear them! 
Could name them all to you. First, the Nightingale ; 
The Rooster next, and then whatever names the rest may 
The matchless culverins, the mortars and the falconets, 
The carronades, that master Stephan 
Has elegantly cast for you in Frankfort. Heard 
You speak with them in front of Worms and Darmstadt — 
Philip of Hesse still feels at ev'ry limb 
The language that so plain you held to him 
That day! 

Franz. Now, write that I demand, within a month, 

To see the matter settled, once for all ; 

And if not promptly done to date, 

Before Cologne acquaintance will they make 

With Franz of Sickingen. 
Balth. Sir, 'twere hard 

For you to give me a pleasanter commission — 

I only wish the tonsured pates gave it 

No heed. How soon would they 

Not to their patron Saint, 

The holy Dominicus, occasion have to pray! 

Yet — that's a pleasure that I must forego. 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



They know you but too well. 
Franz. And now, I must 

A word speak with this lassie. 

[While he turns to Marie a servant enters. ,] 
Serv. A knight is at the gate, and asks admission; 

Ulrich von Hutten his name he gives. 
Franz. [With joy.] What! Ulrich? 

Marie. [Blushing.] Ulrich von Hutten! 

Franz. A happy day ! Ne'er rode 

A better guest into the Ebernburg! 
[To Marie.] The best man of all Germany 
You're now about to see! 

[To the servant who has remained standing.] 
What, fellow, stand you there still? 
Make haste, take wings, 

And lead him quickly hither! [Exit servant.] 
[Again turning to Marie.] My child, 
When this our German land in deepest sleep still lay, 
When still no breast to breathe did dare* 
'Twas he who first the mighty impulse gave. 
Ere Luther did, did he the word pronounce, 
And bravely flung his gauntlet at the face 
Of mighty Rome, and in the impulse of hi3 heart 
Declared war on usurpation. He 
Alone! — And with his proud device, "I've dared it!" 
Himself a freeman spoke. "Wake up, wake up 
Thou noble freedom!" was the fervid cry 
That bold he sounded through the land's confines 
With might, throughout the fettered nation, 
The hearts of men within their breasts inflaming, 
Like none a wak'ner of the people! 
Note well the man, my child, that you 
May learn to know how great men look. 
Marie. [Embarrassed.] Oh, Sir, 

I know him — Met him at the court of Albrecht — 
For four months there I dwelt. 

[Hesitating.] . When, at the tourney that th' Elector gave, 

The knight my colors wore. 
Franz. Indeed ? 

And did, perchance, he look you in the face ? 
Marie. I know not that. It almost seemed to me 

'Twas rather, father, in honor of yourself — you see, 



12 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Nowise like th' other gentlemen was he, 

Forever at the heels of us the girls; 

And, on the whole, he spent but little time 

With us. 
Franz. I dare say! 

Quite other thoughts engage his mind! 
Marie. [Quickly.] But when he was with 

He ever markedly distinguished me. 
Franz. Indeed? You're an important personage! 

I fancy he has made you proud. 

Scene III. 
The former; Ulbich von Htjtten. 

Ulrich. [Stepping in "briskly and with outstretched arms towards 

Franz.] Franz von Sickingen! 
Franz. [Likewise hastening towards him.] Ulrich von Hutten! 

They embrace warmly. 
Ulrich. [Noticing Marie, takes a step towards her and bows.] 

Accept, young lady, my respectful greeting, 

How happy it makes me once again to see you! 
Marie. Sir knight, my thanks ; in truth, I'm also glad. 
Franz. I hear you know each other from Mayence. 
Ulrich. Yes; at 

The tourney I wore the lady's colors^ 

Although with less of luck than pleasure. 

My own was holding well ; already had my lance 

Unhorsed some three or four tall knights, 

When all along there came a cyclop — 

From Brandenburg, sent by th' Elector's brother — 

Square-built and like a bull in strength. 

He roughly brought me down. 
Marie. Sir knight, believe me., it pained me to the heart 

To see you drop, and all on my account. 

I feared the heavy fall had done you hurt, 

Myself I could have pardoned nevermore! 
Ulrich. [Smiles and bows.] 

Not that it was that pained me, noble maid, 

The trifling fall was quickly shaken off ; 

But that your colors, as they would deserve, 

To victory I failed to carry; — that 

Perchance, myself in poorer light might stand 



FKANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



13 



In your esteem, than I would wish — 

That pained me much. 
Marie. [With warmth though bashfully.] 

How can you hold such language! 

Who's he who ne'er in arms has found his master ? 

And is the rough-rude sword the only weapon 

That us with wonder fills us for man? 

You wield still other far more mighty weapons, 

And fame proclaims it that your pen of fire 

In Christendom's broad field finds not its equal! 

That brilliant falchion of the mind — 

You wield it in humanity's great service, 

For freedom and for light, for all that's noble; 

For virtuous aims you wield it like a hero 

With a triumphant power. 

[Deeply blushing, as if having allowed herself to be 
carried too far, steps back.] 
Franz. [Smiling to Balthasar.] Now, list, Balthasar, to that, 

What all the minx can say! 

[Stepping towards Marie and Ulrich.] 

A great word have you uttered., child of mine. 

[Laying his hand on Ulrich.] 

Upon this pen the nation's hope does rest ; 

None better* stronger, in all Christendom! 

And yet is that not yet the best about him. 

Mayhap some day as mighty pens may flourish, 

Mayhap still mightier — but never 

A more undaunted valor, or a nobler mind. 
Balth. [Stepping towards Ulrich.] 

Accept, Sir knight, my homage too. 

From one it comes whose aged heart 

You oft have set aglow. 
Ulrich. [Shaking his hand.] 

Your name is Sloer? Who should not know you! 

Abroad your reputation reaches far 3 

The praises of your diplomatic skill. 

'Tis said of Sickingen's arm'd forces 

You are at least one half. 
Franz. And rightly too. If but he did not ever 

So high persist in soaring, an abler head 

It were quite hard to find. — But a Sir knight, 

You come, if I am right, from Brussels, 



14 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



From the Emp'ror's brilliant court ? 
Ulrich. [Sighing.] I do! 

Franz. Enlighten us ! How did you find our Charles ? 
Ulrich. [Turning his head away.] 

I trust no prince hereafter. 
Balth. [To Franz.] There's your Charles! 

As I foresaw — 
Franz. [Interrupting him.] Oh, silence, Balthasar! 

Pray, triumph not. — If so it be — 

J Tis all the worse for me, as well as him. 

[To Ulrich.] Report whate'er it be. I should be posted well. 
Ulrich. Sir, short is my report. I moved to Brussels. 

Intending with the newly chosen Emp'ror 

For the new doctrine and the cause endear'd 

Of German freedom diligent to labor. 

In that young stripling's soul I hoped to kindle 

Enthusiasm, that purest heritage of youth, 

Into a mighty thirst for noble deeds, 

Whose lusty breath and travail should give birth 

To a rejuvenated, brighter world. — 

You know what great hopes all of us, 

All Germany, and most of all yourself, 

Did pin upon that young man's head — 

[He stops short. Sickingen motions him to proceed.] 

Now watch! 

[With half concealed disgust.] 

Not e'en an audience could I gain 

With the Emp'ror, or his brother. 

The Archduke Ferdinand! 
Franz. A sinister beginning! 

Ulrich. By Romanists and courtesans, 

The creatures of the Pope, found I 

The Emp'ror's ears besieged. Uncanny 

And as if moved with glee malicious, born 

Of secret joy at my discomfiture, 

Sir, scoffingly on me the en'my's eye 

Regaled itself. But soon it all came out! 

Our friends flocked anxiously to warn me 

Pope Leo, thus it ran, had ordered I be seized 

And, bound, delivered up to him in Rome. 

The emp'ror's and the Princes' temp'ral arm 

He all had summoned to fulfill his will. 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Franz. [Mechanically graspmg his sword.] 

Is't possible ! They mean to go so far ! 

And do they think we would submit ? And you, 

Sir knight, who bravely 'gainst oppression rose, 

And, for the sake of your own people's cause, 

A spokesman of the nation, you shall now 

Yourself be subjugated to such dire 

Such ignominious treatment! — Never! 
Ulrich. Conscious of no guilt, 

Upon my pure cause firmly resting, 

At first I laughed at all the warnings. But 

The signs came thick; our friends' anxiety 

Increased, their importunity apace. 

The Emp'ror, I was told, was being pressed! 

Till, finally, from certain sources, I 

Was told I had not e'en a day to lose ! 

Nor was that all, Sir knight, I learned, aye, learned 

That if the Emp'ror seemed to waver 

'Twas all the surer sign of death to me. 

The hatred of the Romanists had fixed 

With poison or with sword I should be slain. 

Regardless of the means,, I was to be 

Wiped off the earth in shortest order! 

I had to flee in haste ! Not one more hour 

My life was thought to be in safety. 
Marie. [Who, like Balthasar, had followed Ulrich' s narrative in 

wrapt attention.] Good God! 

Ulrich. Such was the source of all these tidings, 

So well confirmed from many sides. 

I dared no longer nurse my doubts. I fled ! 

As then, through Germany I rode along 

The Rhine, I came across some trav'lers A 

Proceeding fresh from Rome. Their tidings was 

At Rome the people looked to have me soon: 

The Pope beside himself was in hot rage. 

Aye, ev'rywhere, in ev'ry town I heard 

Of my destruction open converse held — 

Some said I was imprisoned; others^ dead. 

When, finally, in safety I rode into 

Mayence and Frankfort, there came 

To meet me, weeping, many friends, 

Who long for lost myself had given up, 



16 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Saluted me like one who dead was thought, 

And sobbing hung upon my neck. 
Marie. Poor man! 

Franz. [Significantly.] Now are you, Ulrieh, truly knighted! 
Ulrich. [Proceeding with a painful expression.] 

But many a friend I also met, who now, 

Quite fearfully and timid drew himself 

Away, affrighted by the papal ban. 

Some openly, less frank some others. 

Yet plain enough their meaning was to me 

That I a burden now was deemed by them. 

And yet, some others, who, in threatening days, 

My voice had given aid and comfort. 

And whom an anchor I had been 

In many a storm — their language to me now 

Was that they secretly remained my friends, 

But that, as I would have to admit, could not 

In public by me take their stand, 

They could not wholly break with Rome, they thought! 

[After a moment's pause.] 
Sir knight, to meet such treatment from one's friends, 
From men on whom, with ever ready heart, 
One freely poured his warm, unstinted love, 
Oh, that pains sore! 
Franz. Sir Ulrich, be a man! 

Be not cast down by th' ev'ry day occurrence — 

How can it sadden your experienced mind 

That you yourself must undergo a trial 

At once so natural and obvious! 

Them all does Rome hold fettered in her hands 

Through terror — and their interests 'bove all ! 

Know this: Of them each one is after this or that; 

Still oft'ner, anxious not to lose whate'er 

He has! E'en he, who seeks naught for himself, 

Has brothers, sisters, mayhap children, 

Whose interests restrain him to break off 

Too sharply with the powers that be. Thus e'en 

The holy bonds of family — 

That noble teacher of morality, 

Us here below by Nature given 

To tutor us upon the duty of man, 

To learn to rise above his petty self — 



FRANZ VON SICKINOEN. 



Become a spur and lure to meanness, 

With th' aid of sentimental sophistry 

Our better selves into the mire dragging. 

Well did the Vatican its bus'ness know 

When, at the goal of universal power aiming, 

And the creation of a fighting army, 

That, free from all entangling hindrances, 

On one great aim its complete efforts bends, 

Upon the clergy imposed the sinful duty 

Of celibacy! — Yet you, Sir Ulrich, 

You may not by the painful lessons of 

Experience bitter let your strength be lamed. 

Whoe'er your mighty mission taketh up, 

Such vipers he should, undeterred, let free 

Around his breast coil and uncoil themselves, 

But buckle all the firmer on his mail 

Himself against their pois'nous sting to shield. 

Still firmer buckle on the matchless mail, 

On you bestowed by Nature as her gift ! 

The brilliant inspiration, you 'twill ne'er 

Deny! — The truth of that that you proclaim 

That wavers ne'er, however, men may waver. 
Ulrich. [With animation.} Oh, well I see before me standing 

The last of German heroes! Sickingen, 

With right does fame pronounce you great alike 

In word and deed. Oh, German virtue lives 

With renewed, mighty force in you! 
Franz. May God forefend I be the last of all! 

Yourself have said that faithful many friends 

You met, who did not turn away. 
Ulrich. Indeed I met them, yet themselves they urged 

Me with insistance from the towns away, 

Afraid the blows 'gainst me of secret or 

Of open foes they could not parry. 

Pope Leo, ev'rywhere 'tis said, has sworn 

To look upon and as a foe to treat 

Whoever shelters or befriendeth me. 

You know, the towns — where arts and science 

A mighty increment have won, 

And hence beget a noble love of freedom — 

Are friendly to the doctrine new proclaimed. 

And yet, you know the usual run of things : 



18 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



The larger number of the burghers grave, 
Who rule in all the councils of the towns 4 
Are rather circumspect and wary, avoid 
Entangled to become by overt acts, 
And fear with this or that Prince, who, perchance, 
Obedient to the Pope might requisition me, 
To come in open conflict. — 

[After a pause.] Perhaps they still 
A silent shelter might have granted; but — 
You know that I myself can not lie low! 
I can not silent be ; with silence can 
Not purchase sanctuary. — 

[With increasing fire and animation.] 
The spirit moves me! I must its testimony give! 

[Pressing his heart.] 
I can not still what clamors here so loud. 
The direr, wider spreads the gen'ral stress, 
That in despair, as frightened by a pest, 
Sends all to hide within their houses^ 
In silence sliding past the one the other — 
Then all the more the spirit's inpulse moves 
Me 'gainst the devastation stand to take; 
The more it threatens, all the more to fight! 
Oh, had I thousand tongues — just now 
With all the thousand I would wish to speak! 
I much prefer in poverty pursued 
To flee from place to place a hunted beast 
Than Truth renounce by silence! Mayhap 
That brute force may succeed to crush me down; 
The spirit's voice it nevermore can hush. 

Franz. There speaks your heroism, Ulrich! 

It seems as if the whole strength of the Age 
Compressed has been in but two men alone. 
Yourself and Luther hold the torches up ! 
What are the rest to these two giant forms! — 
Give me your hand. What now you just have said 
My mind with supreme wonder would have filled 
If I not long as much of you had known. 

Ulrich. Not therefor praise me, Franz! Not few are those 
Who on that very score have blamed me hard ; 
And yet, the matter well considered, 
Nor blame nor praise do I deserve. 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



By Nature so constructed that the ills 

Of others hard upon my spirit weigh, 

That more than others' heart the public stress 

My own does wring — I can not change it, Sir, 

It is an inborn impulse! 

[After a pause.] All my friends 
Knew that ; 'tis why in fear and dread they drove me 
From town to town, advice to take with you, 
Franciscus. 

Franz. Aye, no wiser counsel, truly, 

Your friends in trouble could have hit upon. 
Upon a strong wall you have leaned yourself, 
Sir Ulrich; might may cause it to break down, 
But there's no storm can make it quaver. 

Balth. They doubly wise advised you, Sir. Indeed. 
For them as wise as for yourself. 

Ulrich. A proscribed man you thus before you see, 
Franciscus ! 

[Stepping towards Franz and talcing his hand.] 
Oh, what weighs upon my soul 
Is not the risk of life and limb I run; 
Quite other thoughts, Sir knight, oppress me sore. 
Why should such dangers dog my ev'ry step? 
Why should exposure threaten warm desire 
Devoted to the common weal? These ills 
Pursue my love and homage unto Truth 
And Fatherland. For these to shame must I 
Be brought? For all one man has taken stand — 
And should not all rejoice that one to shield? 
Oh, where is honor, where is virtue gone! 
Oh, where that German strength and valor 
The theme of song and legendary prose? 
Would they impassive him in bonds see thrust 
Who strives the bonds of all to snap? 
Such course the masses brands with dullness. 
Franz. Be not deterred. — The masses are a child 
That must be first drilled, educated 
Before their better sense can have free play. 
What else can we expect as the result 
Of priestly oppression and besotment? 
Indeed, if that were possible, you must 
Admit, the reasons for complaint against 



20 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



The system would not be so strong and grave — 

So far as you're concerned, I only wish 

The public stress as eas'ly as your own 

Could be dispelled. — [Walks up and down meditatively.'] 
Yet what concerns 

Th' affairs of Fatherland and Emperor, 

We shall not yet lose hope and courage quite. 

I'll write to him; shall see him personally; 

An audience I shall have. — 
Ulrich. The talk is general 

Of the great favor that with the Emp'ror you 

Enjoy. 'Tis stated how, at Aachen, at 

The coronation, he pronouncedly 

Distinguished you 'bove th' assembled Princes. 

And well, indeed, he may no less. — 

Throughout the land it is by all believed 

To you th' imperial crown he owes. 
Franz. But, now, to you. I place my burgs, them all, 

At your disposal. In them rule at will, 

Like I myself. My word upon it, Sir — 

'Gainst realm and Emp'ror I will hold you free, 

As far as need may be. — Tho', it seems to me, 

From Sickingen there'll none be to demand you. 

Your refuge choose yourself; yet, would you please 

Me, stay you here with me; let this my home, 

The Ebernburg your shelter be. 

[During the last three lines s all three group them- 
selves in a semicircle around Ulrich.] 
Ulrich. [With exaltation.] 

Oh, Justice's Shelter I shall name it, 

For here alone the right of freedom dwells! 

In song remote posterity shall know it, 

And immortality reward its name. 
Franz. Nor shall you idle lie A nor silent. 

Your batt'ries I will furnish unto you — 

The batt'ries that so deftly and opportune, 

Our words into a bullet can transmute 

That far and wide the furthest bull's eye hits, 

And Gutenberg, not yet a hundred years 

Ago, contrived. A press I'll have set up. 

Bombard the country; do it bold and brave; 

Forewarn, instruct, incite and propagate; 



FBANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Enlighten, stir, inflame the nation ! 

Show what the mind of man can do. Dispel 

The pitchy night like sun-rays do the mist! 

With willing heart I'll give a helping hand. 

And also, if you will, to Luther write, 

If his pen too the powers seek to bend, 

That here at the Ebernburg he'll find 

Asylum ready and of the press full freedom: 

No longer need he with Electors bother: 

And, at the worst, against these robust walls, 

Th' unconquerable ones of Ebernburg, 

Full many an army its head would have to run 

Before a hair upon his head was touched. 

Balth. Then, also, at these burgs of ours, you 
Will find not few the heralders inspired 
Of the new doctrine, who, like you, have hither 
Fled. Oh, they will with warmth press you to heart! 

Marie. And also I would offer what I may, 
However slight! Of music you are fond — 
When cares press you hard, I will their pall 
Dispel and chase away with sweetest song. 

Franz. Now, come; inspect the new asylum 
That you are now to occupy — 
Besides, I wish to see you privately. 

TJlrich. How in this circle of the loved 

My heart grows soft, and yet with strength is filled! 

How in my breast's deep depth the pure 

Impatience of the mind is soothed and stilled! 

As 'neath the warm and loving sun-rays 

The seed matures and ripens into fruit, 

So in this moment's tender pleasures 

Maturer strength pervades my structure. 

New springs of life course wildly through my veins — 

What once was dark to light is ripened now. 

Here first I felt the glow of human speech, 

And what I am — 'tis here will unfold! 



[The curtain closes.] 



22 



FRANZ fON SICKINGEN. 



ACT It 

Scene I. — A castle in the neighborhood of Worms. 

The stage represents a knight's state room. To the left is a cab- 
inet. At its half-open door, in the act of leaving the cabinet and 
closing the door after him s stands the Imperial Councilor Hans 
Renneb boivi?ig to a person within. 
Emp. [From within the cabinet. 1 

These matters all with him arranged, 
Apprise me. For all others I shall be 
Engaged. 

Ben. [Bowing.] It will be done, Imperial Majesty! 

[Closes the door of the cabinet and steps forward.] 
A wondrous youth this Charles! Upon his one 
And twenty years' shoulders there sits 
A head full fifty years old and wise, 
So serious-keen, so penetrating-sage, 
Unlike all else upon young age bestowed! 
'Tis almost against Nature's course so ripe, 
At such an age so consummate reserved 
To be! Who could his purpose penetrate? 
Or fathom what he means concealed to keep? 
But one thing is quite clear. No common mind 
Dwells in this young man's well controlled being. 

[Is for a moment lost in meditation.] 
And yet, not one trait has he of you, Max! 
You were quite otherwise ! An Emp'ror still 
When back to you my thoughts revert — recall 
You standing here in the bloom of youth — 
The burden of my three score years and ten 
Seems almost to roll off my stooping back! 
In my eyes you have never ag£d. 
I ever see you in your fullest youth — 
When your blonde hair in rippling ringlets fell; 
Your eyes, deep blue, broad-orbed, whose brilliant light 
Like two stars shone; your free, clear voice, 
That mild and truthful, music-like, its way 
Found to the hearts of men ; your brow — 
A mirror on which all could read'ly read 
What on it written stood, and found to read 
But only noblest thoughts of German stock. 
Oh, Max, why did you die before myself! 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



To me it is as if you carried with you 
Whate'er there was that could my heart delight. 
The world that now surrounds me, changed is, 
You were the last of German knights still left, 
The last man — 

[Perceives Franz von Sickingen approaching,'] 
Yet not so! For what complain! 
There comes another like to him! A man 
As Max was, and by him beloved, held dear 
As much as me! God bless you, gallant Franz! 

Scene II. — Renner ; Franz. 

Franz. God bless you, noble friend! It ever was 

You know, a feast to me to see your face. 
Ren. Indeed our friendship is not of fresh date, 

And has not in the course of time grown grey. 

'Tis good that you are there! You're punctual, Franz, 

And yet impatiently the Emperor 

Awaits you. 

Franz. Will you announce me to him? 

Ren. Some business matters I was first to settle. 
Franz. If Charles with me has business, he could 

No more agreeable agent have selected. 

I thank him for the choice. 
Ren. And so 'twas meant 

By Charles. Yourself and me his purpose was 

To join. It is not business only, — no! 

High favor is to be bestowed on you 

And that is why the Emp'ror picked out me, 

The heirloom old, by Maximilian left, 

From all his council gathered there at Worms, 

Acquainted with the friendship that us binds. 

For, as he knew a joy to me 'twould be 

To be the messenger of your distinction, 

He also thinks that all the gladder you 

Would take it at mine own than other's hands. 
Franz. Oh! lo, an expert in the knowledge 

Of human nature seems the younker! 
Ren. Indeed; above all gracious unto you! 

Sir Franz, the Emp'ror wished with you and you with him 

To speak during this Reichstag held at Worms. 

But having heard about the olden feud 



24 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



That once raged hot between yourself and Worms, 

The Emp'ror was of mind it might, perhaps, 

For many reasons inconvenience you 

Were he to invite you to your en'mies' town ; 

And, therefore, did he, Franz, for your sake change 

His quarters to this burg for a few days, 

And gave you here his rendezvous. For no 

Elector, think I, he'd have done as much! 

Franz. Such tender thoughtfulness does please me. Tho' 
The feud I've long forgotten, and, I hope, 
No less the Wormsers have their hatred, 
Yet must I thankfully th' intention note. 
Now, to the point! What does our Emp'ror wish 
From Sickingen? 

Ren. Sir, to the point! 

As you well know, the loan has fallen due 
Of twenty thousand guilders gold, that you 
Advanced the Emperor. But in his purse 
The ebb as low is as is high the tide 
Within his heart for you. He cannot pay. 
The armament 'gainst Francis, the election — 
Have thus our bags exhausted 
That th' only ground we clearly see, 
And which affects th' Imperial Councilors, 
A ground, though bodiless, yet tangible, 
That, like a shadow is hollow and void, and yet 
Is hard unto the touch even if not 
Felt after — the bottom of the bag! 
And further armaments, and larger, will 
'Gainst Francis soon be imperative to us. 
The Emp'ror, therefore, prays you to extend 
The loan. A few years more and he will pay. 

Franz. My worthy friend — 

Ren. No, listen to the ends 

I well know what you have to say, Sir Franz. 
Believe me — Imperial Councilors are so 
Accustomed with impatient creditors 
To deal, that we are able, in advance, 
By heart, upon our fingers' ends, the grounds 
To enumerate that we quite patiently 
Must every creditor allow to dish 
Up ever and anew before us. 
It is now forty years I have borrowed! 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Since I in Maximilian's service came, 
To borrow was my part. What could you, then, 
You inexperienced friend, say new to me? 
But jokes apart! The Emp'ror knoweth well 
That it must cost you sacrifices to 
Comply. The sum is large. And never yet 
Was gold so tight and scarce as now, 
Now everyone is in the bankers' hands, 
They are the true kings in these days! 
It looks as if a mammoth suction gear 
At Augsburg has been set at work, the which 
Its tentacles around the land has strung, 
And all the gold afloat pumps into its chests! 
Aye, if the bankers, at the time, had not 
Accepted Charles' note, and that of Francis 
Returned protested, and with scorn to boot — 
Who knows upon whose head th' imperial crown 
Would rest to-day. — Oh, never Charles forgets 
How you, the usurers to bend his way, 
Yourself did pawn yourself to them! 
Franz. Oh, mention not the matter. 

Ren, Allow me that I touch it. 

And just because of you but only great 

Things are expected, pray lag not behind 

Yourself, this time refusing to comply. 

And Charles submits a double guarantee — 

He will the sum on land and upon men 

By letters patent formally secure 

To you upon such terms that, if default 

Is made, your profit will be great. 

And if you should prefer it, Margaret 

Of Parma all her jewels offers you 

In pawn, with promise — 
Franz. No more, I pray you, Sir! 

You offer me the noble lady's jewels 

The diadem of th' Emp'ror's cousin I 

Shall in my coffer take in pawn? How long, 

Hans Renner, can it be since we have met, 

And what report the good name of Franciscus 

Could to you so have slandered that to me 

You such an offer make? You misconstrued 

My meaning, Sir, when at the start 

You interrupted me. No, Sir, at your 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



First words my mind was firmly made up. 

The habits of your office, filled so long, 

With false presumptions have deceived you. 

So, then, you may your Charles in my name tell : 

When he with greedy traders, Jews, or with 

The Princes of our realm has dealings, then 

May he of pawning jewels and estates 

Hold parlance — but may God forfend a knight 

His duty to his Emperor and Lord 

Should so far misapprize, and himself hold 

So slight as from his own Imperial Lord, 

Who 'gainst the realm's foes seeks himself to arm, 

A pledge to take or negotiate for one, 

Expecting of his lands to cheat him. 

The loan is granted, and still more 

If you should need and I should able be to raise. 

Yourself the day of payment fix; but naught 

Of jewels or estates. Th' Imperial word 

Is quite enough for me. 

. [To himself.] A creditor unique! Upon my soul, 

Now, after forty years' experience, do 

I for the first time meet a novel case! 

[To Franz.] You are, as ever, knighthood's flower 

And mirror! Yes, admitted frankly, 

Ashamed am I, I followed the routine, 

And sought to handle you with such a standard. 

Upon the worn-out tracks of dull experience, 

One almost does forget that something else 

Exists which on life's broad highways 

Is not experienced! Hence the folly 

Of the wise yet childish errors in the brains 

Of those grey heads that dull have grown 

In cleverness. — I had some other things 

To deal about with you, but first, I must 

Th' Imperial horn of favor on your head, 

Franciscus, empty. Know, drawn up lies, 

Imprinted with th' Imperial great seal, ready, 

The bright diploma that yourself and stock 

For ever to the rank of Count does raise 

In our German realm. 

[Stepping hack and botoing.] 
Imperial Count of Sickingen! 
The first am I to greet you by the name; 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



And 'tis but only the first rung, the Emp'ror 

Has ordered me to announce, which you now mount 

Upon the ladder of his favor. 
Franz. [Smiling.'] Then, surely, dear friend, I mount not high, 

For the "first rung," as you have called it, 

Remains to me unmount able. 
Ren. How? What? 

I fail to grasp your meaning. 
Franz. Yet 'tis plain! 

I must the favor — 
Ren. [ Anxiously .] You mean not to — ? 
Franz. Decline, my friend. 

[Renner steps back stupefied.] 
I am a simple knight; 

I'm Franz — now see — I mean the same to be! 
Ren. [In great excitement.'] 

I pray you, do you joke? And why should you 

So great a favor scornfully reject? 
Franz. [Seriously and deliberately.] 

I've told you why. If you with care reflect, 

There lay, in short words, ample sense. My friend, 

Myself my title have I framed together! 

My title is my name, my dear Sir! 

Throughout the realm, Franciscus am I called. 

The name is common to good many more, 

And yet but one is ever by it meant. 

[Slightly ironical.] 

Dull mankind learneth hard! Should we its mem'ry, 

That organ so resistful, titles new 

Inflict upon, that never in its ear 

Can sound as well as th' old sounds known before? 

Please tell your Charles I'm not inclined to turn 

Men into school-boys, and compel them 

To learn anew. 
Ren. By heaven, no! You may 

Not this time listen to your stubborn pride. 

Consider his proud mind! So grave an insult! 

Decline the gift? Reflect what you're about! 

You must not, I insist — recall the word! 
Franz. . [With dignity.] As this our solid earth's gigantic pile, 

Unshakable does stand Franciscus' word! 

[Milder]. My friend, look not so imploringly at me! 

It is not merely pride that makes me speak. 



28 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Why mention to you all my reasons? Look, 
When in the breeze my banner waves, a crowd 
Of Counts of our Empire fall in line — 
Not one more if I'm made a Count myself, 
But many less from knighthood's sturdy ranks. 
And also in other ways it hurtful would 
Affect me — a runner after titles folks 
Would dub me, bent on own promotion, 
Unneeded, bootless to the common weal. 
No, new distinctions I shall ne'er assume 
But such as may increase my aptitude 
To work out greater weal for this our realm! 

Ben. I know you well — the North pole's mound of ice 
Is easier far to melt with one's own breath 
Than change your will! — But what am I to tell 
The Emp'ror is your reason for declining? 

Franz. Tell him the offer I reject — and if 
He will, himself the reason I shall give. 

Ben. Strange man! Be 't so! But now, I hope, at least 
More pliant to the Emp'ror's will you'll prove 
Upon the next, last head — the Emp'ror has 
Appointed you his marshal in the field, 
Also his chamberlain and councilor. 
A life-guard, two score strong of cuirassiers, 
At his expense is yours. Another man 
Than you the news would be imparted as 
High favor. Yet, with you, who, when lie gives, 
Is soft as wax, but, when receiving hard 
As adamant another course must stead. 
I therefore, Franz, announce it straight to you — 
'Twill please the Emperor if you accept. 
He greatly needs your services, and counts 
Upon your military skill and strength. 
Accept, I pray, for when you take you give! 

Franz. One thing is office, rank another thing. 
For office spelleth "duty;" contrary 
From rank, it flows not from and to oneself. 
The crown itself, that now the Emp'ror wears, 
An office 'tis! Whene'er the people speak 
Of th' office of a Prince or Emperor, 
In mind they have the mighty mission of 
The people's shepherd; other thoughts their minds 
Possess when princely rank is on their tongue, 



FRANZ VON SICKIXGEN. 



The men, who steeped in vainglory, puff up 
Themselves forgetful of the aim and root 
Of their existence. Yes, a field-marshal 
When 'gainst his own foes and the realm's 
The Emperor would use me, yes — 
That office I accept. 

But not, therefore, am I to all work bound — 

I, first of all, stand by the men who stood 

By us — our friends and allies whom I'm bound to. 

Ren. What clauses, and as many as you please 
You're free to make! It is enough that you 
Accept! But now, I pray you, Franz — 
I now proceed to announce you to the Emp'ror — 
With a petition charge my errand! 
You granted have what of you was requested, 
And have rejected what was offered. 
Believe me, that he ill can bear. It is 
A thorn pressed in his proud Imperial soul. — 
It almost looks like an exchange — yet, Franz, 
I pray you, if but for my sake alone — 
To soften what is harsh in my report — 
Petition aught! 

Franz. Well, then! The Emperor 

Is angered at th' Elector Palatine. 
If I not err, a thunder storm now threats 
To break upon th' Elector's head. He is 
My liege-lord, and since olden days has been 
A friend and good to me, as I to him. 
You may, then, tell the Emperor, if on 
Franciseus grace he would confer, he please 
His anger, whether just it be or not, 
With pardon's tender hand to strangle. 

Ren. You play with words,, my friend! I gladly shall 
To th' Emperor your wishes carry. But 
That is not a request, as I had meant. 
Instead of for yourself, for others you 
Entreat, as though you wished thereby to prove 
Yourself naught needed, and too high you stood 
For Charles's grace to climb the stairs of 
The throne on which, in self-sufficient and 
Ecstatic majesty, you sit! Franz, wound 
Not th' Emp'ror! Could you, were you in his place, 



30 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Afford to use that subject, who for you 
No use, himself can find ? 

Franz, Perhaps you err. 

Perhaps from th' Emperor himself so much — 
So very much I have to ask, that 'tis 
But wisdom if my credit's weight I will 
Not weaken, since, may be, the simple pound 
Of his Imperial favor, thrown at once 
Into the scale, may not be heavy enough 
To lift the weight of the petition that 
I bring. So far, you questioned me. Now let 
Me, changing our roles, a question put 
To you. What Charles with me did want — I now 
Informed am on ; what I with him — as yet 
Not one word did you utter. Tell me, how 
Did he the contents of my letters take? 
How stand things with this Reichstag's great affair? 

Ben. Mean you Luther? 

It may be many weeks before the schism 
At all can come up for discussion. 
Till then it will be in the pow'r of none 
To learn what in his mind he harbors. 
One time it seems like this, and then like that, 
And ever it but seems. The grave is not 
So locked as is his breast. You sooner could 
Unlock in Nature's breast her thoughts most hidden 
Than from him learn the deed before 'tis done. 
But, now, allow that I announce you. — Look 
Who's that approaching? Lo! th' Electors two 
Of Treves and Palatine, besides the landgrave 
Philip of Hessen! 

[The three named personages enter. ,] 



Scene III. — Former; Electors Ludwig of the Palatinate and Arch- 
bishop Richard of Treves; the Landgrave Philip of Hessen* 

Ben [Advancing towards them and boiving.] 

I welcome you, my noble Sirs! — At your 

Command!-— 
Arch, Our horses hither, 

Sir Council, carried us from Worms, because 

We matters of importance have to treat 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



With th' Emptor. 

[To Ludwig.] Better than elsewhere, 
Sir Palatine, we here can manage your 
Affair. The Legate, warm friend of my youth, 
The only one who yet has influence 
With Charles, and here sojourns with him, himself 
Advised this step to me, and promise gave 
To second my endeavors. 
Ren. Your graces! 

My orders, true enough, are none to announce, 

Seeing his Majesty on matters of 

Importance rendezvoused the knight. And yet, 

I may not, in the presence of such Princes, 

Too close adhere unto the letter of 

My orders.— 

[Bows and withdraws into the imperial cabinet.] 

Scene IV. — The same, without Renneb. 

Franz. [Takes a step towards the Count Palatine and bows.] 
Franciscus greets your grace, and he rejoices 
With a full heart to see you look so well. 

Lud. [Taking a step towards Franz and shaking his hand.] 
God with you, Franz! How goes it in your house? 
How does your pretty daughter? Often 
The promise made you and again to send her 
To Heidelberg, to visit my wife's court. 

[While they continue to converse with each other.] 

Arch. [To Landgrave Philip.] 

Behold! We meet here both the Kaisers — 
Both Charles — and yonder Kaiser by the grace 
Of popularity, of mass-applause — 
The German intellectual Kaiser. 
Who knows, of them two, which it is that will 
The other turn to a man of straw. Behold 
The favor that th' Elector stands in with him; 
We almost might our trouble save with Charles, 
Since he's so graciously received here! 
You saw't yourself — his greeting was alone 
For him, while not a nod he deemed us worth. 

Phil. Prefer it so. It would have gone against 
My grain a greeting to return to him. 

Arch. I readily believe you. Odd must be 



32 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



The itching in your grace's skin as oft 
As you behold a knight, who, like him — 
So wholly has you in his pocket. 

Phil. [Angrily.] His pocket? Me? What have you in mind? 

Arch. The obligation is upon my mind, 

Which he — when at the gay and sportive hunt, 

That, meaning but his guns to keep in practice, 

Took place against your Darmstadt — won from you. 

Phil. You're scoffing, Sir — 

Arch. Who scoffs, Sir Philip, pray? 

And if I scoff, God knows, I scoff as much 

At me as at your grace's self! — 

Quite serious; — has it e'er been seen before 

A simple knight a Prince to so toss on 

His horns as he did you? Of you what would 

Have been if, for the Baden's margrave's sake 

He had not been content to leave you but 

Half plucked ? And have you calculated, Sir, 

How soon the moon and sunshine in your states 

Would constitute their only earthly wealth, 

Were he to call the promissory note 

With which you forced were to purchase peace? 
Phil. Your purpose is to sting me; — as you're well 

Aware, the obligation was pronounced 

By Emp'ror Max invalid. 
Arch. But I've heard 

That in advance the instrument provides 

That all objections you renounce, that rest 

Upon the Emp'ror, or the Reichstag's vote. 

Thus Max's fiat is of no avail 

If Franz, as lately I informed have been, 

Eventually means payment to demand. 
Phil. All one! I stand upon the Emp'ror's verdict. 

My sword — 

Arch. Is still the same as 'twas before; 

But otherwise it is with Franz's sword! 

Compared with to-day, his power then 

Could slight be called. Indeed, your grace, it shoots 

Gigantically up, a pois'nous tree, 

And soon its shadow will have swallowed all of us! 
Phil. And be it so! But do you think it likely 

The Emp'ror could the debt of his ances — 
Arch. Speak you of th' Emp'ror Charles? Go to, Sir Philip! 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Have you, perchance, been able to scent out 

The plans of Charles? And do you think the proud 

Young man, the autocratic Lord of Spain, 

Delights so much at our power and 

Free hand? Therein the very danger lies 

That threatens us — Charles and Franciscus! 

Behold two cards that never should have been 

Found jointly in the game of the same Age! 

Each supplements the other, and can turn 

Its prop to mightiest acts! It all depends 

Upon the manner accident the two 

Together shuffles. Sir, we may expect — 

If profit-lured — to see, as yet may be, 

Instead of each the other trumping, each 

As high as heaven raise the other. 



Scene V. — Render stepping in from the Imperial cabinet ; the others, 

Ren. My noble Princes, please you pardon me! 
His Majesty Imperial can not hear you now; 
He to the castle summoned Franz, the knight. 
The Emperor expects in two more days 
To be at leisure and to listen 
To you at Worms. He is approaching. 

[After making this announcement, at the first words of 
which Ludivig, breaking off his conversation icith Franz, 
returns to the other Princes, Rentier steps to the opposite 
•side of stage towards Franz,] 
Arch, [With jeering and triumphant mien to the tico Princes, who, 
visibly astonished at Rennet's announcement, step back.] 
Pray, tell me, do you notice aught? 

[He continues to converse with them in a low voice. The 
personages are now so grouped that, at one side of the 
stage, Franz and Renner, on the other, the three Princes 
are together.] 
Ren. [To Franz.] Franciscus! 

With greater grace than I had feared did Charles 
Receive our dialogue's report. 

[Continues in a low voice.] 
Phil. Indeed, it is unheard-of! Thus three Princes, 
Among them two Electors, to dismiss 
For but a knight! 



34 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Lud. It is an odd thing — 

It cannot be denied. 
Arch. Keep cool! This is 

But the beginning! Mark my words, the knight 

Eventually will ask us all the price 

Of our Elect'ral hats. 
Lud. You hate him for 

He is not Romish, but of Luther a 

Supporter. 
Arch. [Pointing to Philip.] 

This Prince also is friend 

Of Luther, yet not therefore blind! Nor you, 

Your grace, although on purpose you may choose 

To shut your eyes. Have you forgotten how 

At Aachen, at the coronation, Charles 

The knight before th ? assembled Princes placed 

Upon his right? 

[They continue in a low voice,] 
Ben. [To Franz.] The Emp'ror graciously 

Received your prayer for th' Elector, 

And for your sake has he consented. 

Shall I not now the Palatine inform 

What he owes you? 
Franz. Pray, do not so! It might 

His self-esteem offend — a thing I would avoid. 

[Glancing at the group of Princes.] 

Besides, I see quite clearly Romish thorns 

Now busy at work, to stir up petty sores. 
Arch. Say what may please you! If your liege-lord yonder — 

Excuse me, liege-man should I say. 'Tis thus 

That words are readily misprised — almost 

As readily as rOles, and who could tell 

What time may bring! — Tho', then, I meant to say, 

Your present liege-man with such grace just now 

Received you, yet am I not, for that, 

So fascinated by his graciousness 

To fail to feel as insult done to me 

The slap bestowed, for his sake, on my cheek. 
Lud. [Meditatively.] 

You're partly right in many a thing you say. 
Arch. I mean also the other half to unfold 

Quite fully to your eyes. But now we must 

Withdraw. It ill would us befit to wait 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEtf. 



Till Charles's arched eye-brows bid us off 

The hall. You, noble Sirs, pray come. Perhaps 

I may be able to impart to you 

Some information that yourselves may judge 

Whether it does or not illuminate 

My words, and what yourselves have here seen. 

[While they withdraw, the cabinet opens and the Emperor 
enters. At the appearance of the Emperor, Renner also 
withdraws slowly. Franz bows low 3 and remains in that 
posture.] 

Scene VI. — Charles and Franz. 

Emp. [At the age of 21; he is dressed in rigid black; his bearing 
and appearance dignified and measured. He contemplates 
Franz long and attentively.] 
You're welcome to me, Franz! 
Franz. [Retaining his posture.] Imperial Majesty! 
Emp. Approach ! 

[Franz rises and takes a step towards Charles.} 
I'm pleased with you Franz — 
And also not. Indeed, I'm almost wroth! 
Although I'll readily admit the fact 
That none as yet has reason given me 
For such a wrath. 
Franz. Imperial Majesty! 

Emp. Franciscus, tell me frankly why 
The proffered countship you decline? 
Franz. Your Majesty — 
Emp. I asked you, why? 

Speak freely! 

Franz. Well, few words will say it all — 

A free man, independent, have I served 

You; free and independent would I serve you still! 
Emp. [To himself.] He's proud, by God! 

[Aloud.] Aye, that was short and sharp. 

Perhaps — too sharp, Franciscus! 
Franz. Sire ! 

Of courtiers your supply is ample. When 

Franciscus you interrogate, meseems 

'Tis truth you wish to learn. Whenever you 

Francsicus question, pray do not expect — 
Emp. The siren voice of flattery? Be 't so! 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



In that you' re right, and meet my wishes well. 

Not in the same way may be served by all 

He who well served would be. — But this your free 

And independent service, as you called 

It— 

Franz. [With warmth.] Is but all the more devoted, Sire, 

It is but all the more unmeasured! 

The service that is paid for has its bounds, 

But boundless is disinterestedness! 
Emp. [Sympathetically looking upon Franz, and with emphasis.] 

You're right — 

[After a pause.] And yet, Sir Sickingen, 

It ill becomes the Emperor that he 

Your debtor should remain — and such I still 

Am since th' election; I deny it not. 
Franz. Imperial Lord! Th' Elector Palatine 

For my sake you have pardoned — richly with 

Such act the slight account now cancelled stands. 
Emp. No, Franz! Feign not. You do not so believe. 

Too well you know your own acts' heavy worth; 

And neither I believe so! Keeping faith 

With friendship and with faithful service done, 

You have the occasion been for me my wrath 

To allay; thus have you in virtue's path — 

Which is, above all others, Princes' path — 

Confirmed me more — besides a new friend in 

The Palatine returned to me. You have 

Thus doubly and anew deserved well 

Of me. Therefore petition aught, Sir knight, 

In order that your Emp'ror's debt may shine 

On you. Or do you deem me much too poor 

To give you aught? 
Franz. [With warmth.] You poor, whose hand within 

Its hollow holds the world's, and this land's fate! 

May God forbid that I with you, my Emp'ror, 

Should play the proud! — If in his grace divine 

Th' Almighty left you a prayer free, would you 

On this or that the costly favor waste, 

On what at man's hand is received with thanks? 

You, sooner, striving for an instant's share 

Of His omnipotence, to that your hand 

Would stretch, that the Creator's full-might needs 

For its accomplishment! That is my case, 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Exalted Sire ! Th' election you have mentioned — 
Fulfill the reasons why upon your youthful 
Head Germany the diadem of Christendom 
Did place — the richest man of all alive 
The poorest of your servants then you've turned. 

Emp. It seemeth the conditions never end. 
In this your land determining the choice 
For Emperor! — And yet from you I fain would learn 
Upon what grounds your choice upon me fell. 

Franz. Three were the reasons, Sire, and yet but one — 
The first, because you Max's grandson are, — 
This vouched to us your German mind. The second, 
Because you are the King of Spain, — a guarantee 
That you would never lack for strength 
Against the Princes' anarchism 
The realm's integrity to safeguard. 
The third, 'tis this, because a youth you are, — 
It was an earnest that you were not yet 
In musty custom's jog-trot hardened, that 
You were not fettered in the bonds of bigotry, 
That free, your young heart moved by and open to 
The Spirit of the Age, the vassalage would spurn 
That Roman priestcraft would impose upon 
The masters of the world. 
When I upon you look and con the signs 
That cluster thick around you — 
So young and yet the world's throne called to fill; 
A peerless age, at which the highest aims 
To greater still the thirst for action drives; 
Three kingdoms holding in a single hand, 
And thus from birth's first instant arm&d with 
A weapon such as heaven's rare grace 
Bestows on man but only once a thousand years — 
I have no doubt you are the chosen one, 
Like a Messiah to rejuvenate 
The fate of this our earth and realm's fair life, 
And start them both upon a new career. 

[>f 'jeps back bowing.] 
This Reichstag, Sire, will expectation test — 
If you the instrument of heaven know 
To use, and also heaven's task fulfill! 

Emp. You speak of Luther, Franz! 'Tis there that 
I stood awaiting you. You not conceal 



33 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



The interest you take in this monk's cause. 

With letters oft you have beseiged me, 

And calumny itself at work has been 

You/ zealous heart before me to besmirch. 

I have been told — they thought to make me think — 

That out of love for Luther — fearing 

I might the pass break which I promised him 

To this Reichstag — you posted here in 

The neighborhood of Worms five hundred knights, 

And mounted men hold ready at friendly burgs, 

Intending him to free with force of arms, 

If need there be! — You see how little faith 

To the report I lend when now yourself 

I ask that you the lie may give to it — 

Your answer I'll consider proof enough. 
Franz. And so you may, Sire! Never lie will cross 

Franciscus' lips. The siand'rers tongues — for that 

They are in spite of all — have this 

Once told you naught but what is true. 
Emp. [To himself.] By God, quite bold! 

[Aloud and with severity.] How dare you, Bickingen. 

So open in my face rebellious acts 

Admit to me, and dreading not my wrath ? 
Franz. No, Sire! The undeserved I never dread. 

For your fame's sake, and for the nation's cause 

Would I have acted — if to act was need. 

One Constance is enough for Germany. 

Not wrath should be my due from you but thanks, 

If I from grave transgression kept you free. 

And though the rashness of your youthful wrath 

Struck me, 'twere better I with wrath were struck 

Than with compunction you! Your Emp'ror's word 

You Luther gave. Such is the majesty, 

That word's effect and force, that straight to law 

'Tis raised, a law that bindeth all, and all 

Are called to uphold, aye, e'en against yourself. 

Your w r ord, that is at stake — but not its breach ! 
Emp. [To himself.] Of th' olden generation, now died out, 

Of German heroes that the legends tell, 

A last descendant stands before me. 

[To Franz.] Sith with such frankness you yourself admit 

The contemplation of the risky scheme 

Some more confessions you may have to make. 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



39 



In Worms, at all the corners of the streets 
A bill was found, that, posted over night, 
Was filled with encouragement to Luther, 
And threats, if violence was done him. The 
Placards with fearful admonitions closed, 
Repeating thrice the word: "Bundschuh! Bundschuh f" 
The shocking symbol of the peasant riots! 
Is't possible my noblemen could so 
Forget themselves as e'en against the realm's 
Peace common cause with peasants vile to make? 
Did that from you proceed? I wish to know. Speak out! 
Franz. Imperial Majesty! — 

Emp. [Abruptly interrupting.] No, silence! Not a word, Sir knight! 

A dang'rous thing, I see, it is to question you. 

I more might learn than profitable 'tis to know. 

'Tis better, for myself and you I hear naught! 

I wish no more to know, Sir knight. — no more on that! 
[After a pause.] 

I see it, Franz, the common measure that 

We others measure with, is not for you. 

To you, what to none other, pardoned is. 

I am not wroth at what you just have said, 

Yet odd it is that you — a warrior bold, 

Whom else the wranglings of the priests concerns 

But slight, should so absorbed be in this monk. 

Your mind, I thought, for greatness only thirsts. 
Franz. And for my country's greatness thirsteth he! 
Emp. And is it with this monk identified? 
Franz. So fully that whoever, through impluse and 

Through manly duty, as well as by profession serves 

The one, compelled is the other too to serve. 
Emp. And even if it were — you truly, think 

Against the Church's sacred ordinance, 

From God derived, my mind to turn away? 
Franz. My Emperor! 

With such an answer do I credit you 

As little as for mine you gave me credit. 

The truth I said to you — to me speak truly too. 
[Charles makes a motion of astonishment. 1 

Exalted Sire! 

Your sight is clear! The band of blindness cais 
Before your eyes no priestly artifice 
Draw tight. If here in Europe lived buri 



40 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



One foe unto the Pope, that deadly foe 

Is you. By office and by birth you are 

His foe. Hereditary is the feud 

Adown your lineage long descent 

Between the two. And when with glory and fame 

Your ancestors in office bore your staff, 

As heavy, heavier yet than kin or blood 

They weigh. Upon your young head loudly cries 

A heritage of vengeance — five hundred years old. 

Remember our Henry's fate, whose heart 

Broke at Canossa when the knee he bent; 

Remember Barbarossa's life heroic, 

To long protected struggles given o'er, 

In vain the foot-kiss shame to blot away; 

Recall that wonderfully brilliant form 

Of Frederick the Second, against whom 

His own sons Rome set up — thus parricide 

Approving, if but the Emperor was struck! 

So long as Popes there were and Emperors, 

Each in the other's red blood wrote, and with 

His sharpest weapons drew the record fell. 

Around you hover, palpitating, 

The spirits of your ancestors; to you 

Their hands imploringly they raise, and cry 

Oh, happy one! 

Emp. [Interrupting and deeply moved.] 

I pray you stop! Your zeal is carrying you away! 

Franz. [Continues passionately.] 

You, chosen one, the bearer of our sword, 
In your hands heaven has the power placed 
From this land's flesh the galling thorn to draw, 
The martyr's stake, at which we all of us 
Have bled and with us, aye, our bleeding race, 
In vain and prolonged torture writhing! 
You, you can now the deed accomplish! You 
The weapon swing, the mighty queller wield! 
Betray not our eyes, with sorrow broken — 
Oh, trample under foot the priest, against 
Whom all of us, all peoples' history, 
At your side stand as bleeding witnesses — 
Forsooth — if you could peace make with the Pope, 
Yourself you from the Imperial lineage strike, 
And consecrate your stock to our nation's curse! 



FRANZ VON SICKINGrEN. 



Emp. [Interrupting as above.] 

Again I pray you, moderate your zeal! 
You almost carry me away — yet may 
Not passion rule in such supreme affairs. 
You are aflame, your voice — 
Franz. Blares like the trumpet 

Which is to announce the judgment of all time. 
Its sound-wave surgeth, seetheth with the clash 
Of the future and the past, loudly beating 
Against the dull-deaf ear of the present. 
— And if it possible could be, if such 
A line of heroes could not move you, 
Think of your blood, of Max, your ancestor, 
Whose life having out-lived six Popes', 
The well-known cry of pain still rounded up: 
And e'en the last one also cheated me! 
Think of yourself, whose very first step stumped 
Upon that heaped-up papal enmity, 
That, meddling, hell and heaven stirred to thwart 
Your candidacy, unable to believe 
You could for Rome's equerry have been born. 
Emp. If e'er the Pope, presumptuous, stretch his hand 
After my crown's rights temporal — believe me, 
We shall not lack for either shield or sword. 
Another thing it is within the realm of faith 
Against the Church's rule an impious hand to raise. 
Franz. Sire! Equal false are both these principles; 
And equal dangerous are both to you! 
Supremacy in human conscience's realm — 
Behold th ? insidious, poisoned weapon which, 
Triumphant in their struggle 'against th' Empire, 
The Gregorys and Innocents have wielded. 
Can, truly, such partition satsify you? 
In man's frame- work the body's subject to 
The soul: a corpse the soulless body turns. 
To you such portion gladly they award 
While confidently holding it with firm 
And sure grip by the fetters of the soul! 
So that, when you in struggle's stress rely 
Most confident upon your scepter's might, 
At one stroke magic, through a thousand threads 
To all the limbs communicated, lo! 
The re-awakened corpse against you's flung, 



42 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Your people they against your might array! 

A phantom-king upon your throne you sit, 

So long the curia of Rome in its hand holds 

The seal upon your people's conscience! 
Emp. And all this is by Luther to be changed? 

That Augustinian friar, obscure man, 

Whom you yourself in fear stand, I may 

With one stroke of my pen annihilate? 
Franz. You err, my Emperor! Learn first this monk 

To know. On his tongue dwells the Nation's soul; 

From his eyes flash the burning sparks of Light; 

Upon his brow, broad as eternity, 

Thought's might and puissant lightning quiv'ring glows; 
And when he speaks the people's heart is stirred 
As when the lap of earth the Spring awakes, 
As birth the laden, pregnant woman's womb 
With new life's warm presentiment delights! 
Of mind the mighty ruler he stands forth, 
His mission's truthfulness attesting. 
Suppress — him, Sire? 'Tis likelier far the monk 
May write yourself from crown — and realm to boot! 
Ripe are my people, hanging from his lips, 
No Prince so mighty him to annihilate. 
Emp. You mean — 

Franz. Oh, yield not to the Princely illusion, 

The old, forever on its heels returning. 
You hasten may — to hinder you can not ; 
To shape you can — but not to dissipate. 
You can not turn awry, delay th' inevitable, 
That with the throb of life strains to unfold 
Itself ! The birth that's hard, before its time 
The wise physician's bold cut may set free — 
Caesarian cut coincidence the section names. 
But when the hour strikes, the ninth month's peal, 
Not all the power of earth, in one hand lumped, 
Can close the mother's womb, or could prevent 
Her, on the point of birth, to be delivered! 
The pressure of the ripening, throbbing fruit 
Its palings bursts; — aye, dead leaps into light 
The life itself that we would backward thrust. 

Emp. If so it be — what seek you, then, with me? 
Why do you still in need stand of my aid? 

Franz. To shape, I said, it lay with you. Whole worlds 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Within the magic circle of that word 
Lie locked. Time runs its course; howe'er, its course 
Is otherwise with you — and otherwise 
Against. Woe if against yourself it be! 
Till now I mentioned to you only Rome; 
But almost graver dangers are abroad: — 
— Would you have Luther in the Princes' hands 
To fall? Yourself the lever furnish them 
That from their forlorn tackle now redeems 
The Nation's unit and emp'rorship? 
In your hands Luther is an instrument 
Divine the greatness of the land to raise; 
In theirs to smite the land in ruins with! 
Oh, do not cast away the Papal rich 
Inheritance! — Dissolved, if hands you join 
With Luther, are the abbeys, bishoprics — 
To you, the realm, these livings all revert. 
With th' increased power in your hands, away 
Will melt to former insignificance 
The Princes' arrogant pretentiousness 
That now your throne o'ershadows. Of the base 
Abuse of power — by the dint of which 
The' Imperial mandate and their office they 
To property have changed, thus theft committing 
Upon the majesty of th' Emp'ror and 
The realm — the hour at last would have arrived 
When ancient Wrong is solved into Right, 
And once again to its rightful owner come 
The thievings done by the dishonest stewards. 
— Aloft borne by the people, who, rejoicing, 
Surround you as a God who spoke the word 
Creative — then all-powerful you are; 
A greater Charles the Great, you rear anew 
This realm's old splendor, one-time unity. 
Again over this land's domains would then 
The Emp'ror's hand sway free ; to vassals bacfc 
The rankly grown w T ill reconverted be; 
Then only will you he what now you seem — 
An Emperor — and thanks to Luther's hand. 
mp. [Abruptly breaking in ivith involuntary interest,} 
And why did he not go to th' Ebernberg, 
Whither at my request you invited him 
To meet with Glapio, my confessor, and 



44 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



With him confer? Upon your letters, you 

To please, I fell in with the plan. To my 

Word true, I sent you Glapio — but in vain 

For Luther did he wait. Why came he not? Speak! 
Franz. [With fire.] Oh, Sire! With Truth there's no compounding! 

As well compound with th' overtopping fiery pillar 

That marched before the hosts of Israel; 

As well compound with th' arrowy mountain stream 

That, certain of its course, is dashing on! 

I wrote to him; invited him to come. 

But that ambassador of God recoils 

Before one fear only — 

His enemies he fears not, he fears 

His friends alone, who, in love's timid cares, 

The weakness crouching in the hearts of all 

Might in his own awaken, and abate 

His zeal for that which in his soul his mind has writ. 

With slackened reins, he wrote, his impulse drives 

Him on his enemies to rush headlong. 

Before th' assembled realm and th' Emperor, 

He boldly would and frank the solemn Truth confess. 
Emp. [After taking a few steps up and down the room and then 
pausing, deliberately.] 

You see the man can not be treated with — 

And I shall blindly yield myself to him? 

Shall, as the tail a comet follows, this 

New doctrine follow on its trackless path? 

Are we a gambler that upon the unknown 

Stakes all for all? — No more, no more of that! 

And other reasons — for a minute's time 

Back-driven by your stormy, headlong speech — 

Regain once more — like unto a tree, that, once 

The storm that bent it's o'er, re-rears its head — 

Their proper mastery resume: 

— You spoke of greatness. Is there none but that 

Which you pursue? Three crowns you said this hand 

Combines — and a new world, beyond the seas, 

Is rising promiseful beneath my scepter. 

The claim, of old made by th' Imperial crown, 

The throne of Christendom, it seems is near 

Reality. Yet, as throughout the Universe 

But one thought runs, the force invisible 

Of but one Church it is that holds the whole 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Together and cements its sev'ral parts! 
One faith the title is of that old claim. 
One faith joins all the peoples of my realm, 
Whom language, customs, laws, keep far apart. 
The Universe's law can but the symbol be 
Of the one Church, that in its di'mond head, 
The high Vice-regency of Christ, is bound. 
One Pope, one Emperor. — The two e'en when 
At war with one another, yet so mutually 
Dependent on each other as the soul and body ! 
The Roman crown Imperial, what, without 
That, would it be? At one fell plunge it would 
Have sunk to a mere territorial princedom. 
— You say that Luther's doctrine is acclaimed 
By Germany; yet not of this land only 
Am th' Emp'ror I. And can you at all imagine 
Your bleak conceit — which the ideal of 
A living incarnation robs us of — 
Could also charm the Spanish people, or 
The people of Neapel? And shall I 
With my own hand the bond of unity 
Destroy that winds itself around my realms? 
Turn my priest-loving southern souls, my own 
Hereditary lands, in hate from me? 
Endanger what my own is now; and I 
Myself the proud traditions cast away 
Of universal rule that cluster 'round my crown? 
ranz. [With fire.] Oh, seek not, at the price of liberty 
Or of the mind, the greatness that must slip 
Your hand. The architect who on the mind 
Of man would rear his dome, must from the mind 
Itself carve his material, lest like boys 
He acts, who in the sand for flitting hours 
Their figures draw! These fancy -lines are swept 
Away, dissolved by the first swell that springs 
Up from the masses, and that dashes on 
Your dreams. The Universal Empire draws 
You on? If, strong in unity, our land 
Inspired would acclaim you, then your dream 
W T ould crystallize. 'Tis not for Spain — 'tis far 
Above her strength. Germania has this world 
Before now conquered with her sword, and with 
Her spirit captured bold. No Pope gave her 



FEANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



The fief. His own high rank the Pope owes to 
That Charles, not he unto the Pope. Where is 
The sward on this terrestrial globe not fed 
Upon Germania's blood? New life for it 
We conquered. Ours — if anyone's is this 
World by the right of sustenance. Through us 
Alone what through none other you can do! 
So far as Europe's strands extend, they are 
By our Germania's stock rejuvenated. 
It kept unsullied Europe's heart; and from 
That mother's heart the cry again goes up — 
The awakening! Stop not to its cry the ear 
Of Europe — and the echo will reverberate 
Within the peoples' pantheons. Liberty 
A seed is that, if wisely nursed in ev'ry land, 
Is eas'ly propagated; while the plant 
Of slav'ry, raised by artifice, the soil, 
That once rejected it, accepts no more! 
Oh, sacrifice not unto empty fears 
The spring whence flows your greatest strength ; 
Oh, do not sacrifice your crown of crowns ; 
Oh, sacrifice not Germany to Naples! 
o. Enough! The matter has been weighed, decided. 
I can not as you would ! Were I a German, 
Were I the Emp'ror of but Germany, 
I might, perhaps, feel as you do, and act 
Accordingly. But who is free in this 
Tumultuous world? Who does alone decide, 
Instead of being dictated to imperiously 
By his position's iron law? The favor 
That I conferred on you you spurned; 
One favor, though, I showed to you that none 
Alive can boast! I spoke with you as if 
Communing with myself. I faithful shall 
The favor carry to the end. — Three reasons, 
Said you, decided my election; — three 
The reasons are preventing that I follow you: 
The first, because I am no German ; next, 
Because of Spain I am the king; and lastly, 
Because the crown, that you my crown of crowns 
Have named, from stock to stock uncertain travels. 
Did I this scepter hold hereditary, 
Like that of Spain, and to my own stock could 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Bequeathe the mighty German realm, Oh, then, 

The matter would another aspect wear. 

But any encroachment on the nomad right 

Of that election — Franz, you might yourself — 

[Pauses and casts a scrutinizing look at Franz.] 
Franz. [Deliberately.] A thrust — against our German freedom deem. 
Emp. [Taking a step back and colder.] 

See you? And with the Princes' time-soaked rights, 

With the tenacious force that latent lies 

In all abuse, shall I on life and death 

To wrestle undertake ? To stake on such 

A goal my whole life's full endeavors, 

And after painful and uneasy nights, 

In case I triumphed, such a might-begirted 

Crown, such a priceless jewel, in whose splendor 

The crowns combined of Europe all would pale, 

Shall I to a stranger leave for heritage? 

Perchance for a successor of the Saxon stock 

Am I such work to achieve? No, Franz, you see, 

I've thoroughly revolved it, not now alone, 

Though now more carefully than yet before. 

Unshaken stands the first resolve I took. 

Impossible — by that we must abide. 

My word rests on the best considered grounds. 
Franz. You speak, I'd say, as one who ripely does reflect, 

And then full consciously — the worser part selects! 
Emp. [Frowning with severity.] 

That word, Sir knight, I'll pardon, but upon 

Condition that I hear it nevermore. 
Franz. [Boivs silently.] 
Emp. [After a pause, and kindly.] 

Your dashed hopes embitter you; they make 

You fail in justice. Yet I hope that time 

To rosier thoughts will bring you back again. 

Give up what 'tis impossible to reach. 

There are still other aims to strive for than 

Your own, and not less worthy of endeavor. 

If you but mine unto your own wish would 

Convert, then, Franz, then, through th' Imperial favor, 

As high as none did mount before, could you. 

[Pauses and casts a long penetrating look at Franz, who re- 
mains motionless.] 

Till then — you are dismissed, Sir knight! 



48 



FRANZ V0& SICKIffGfitf. 



[Franz bows low and departs in silence.} 
The man is great — but 'tis not greatness that 
I seek, or that of use can be to me. 

[Returns into the cabinet. The scene changes.] 

Scene VII. — Cabinet of the Papal Cardinal-Legate, located at another 
wing in the castle. 

The Cardinal-Legate and Elector- Archbishop Eichard enter from 

a side-room. 

Arch. It happened just as I to you narrated. 
Card. 'Tis serious, very serious! — And the issue 

Of their discourse, have you an inkling of? 
Arch. I left as Charles appeared. But looking back, 

I saw Hans Renner also leave the hall. 

Also the minister not wanted seemed, 

And all alone wished Charles with him to speak. 
Card. Odd! Yet whate'er the subject they discussed, 

Whate'er the issue may have been — a thorn 

The man is us — of Rome a hater, friend 

Of Hutten, and protector of Reuchlin. 
Arch. And Luther's best support; the soul of the 

Nobility, that rallies round his flag, 

In whom his hostile temper he instills, 

And 'gainst us all to bitter foes has turned. 
Card. The thing to do is to extract this thorn. 
Arch. Proceed to extract, Sir Cardinal. He will 

Quite rudely, bloody too, your fingers prick. 
Card. What have you in mind? Pray, speak out plain to uw. 

I know, when danger once you scented have, 

You forthwith plan the way it can be choked. 
Arch. There is no lack of planning. Long I've planned. 

To-day, somewhat more kind, chance smiled on me. 

It is not much, but yet a germ of hope. 

But you I'd hear first. Could you not stir 

The Emp'ror against Franz? 
Card. To attach decide 

Him 'gainst Franciscus? Quite impossible! 

Too deep he stands to Sickingen indebted; 

Is yet too young the favor to despise! 

And yet — if others could the knight trepan, 

Involve him in some wrongful act, I might, 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Perhaps — I say perhaps, Sir Archbishop — 
Induce him quietly to let him drop. 

Arch [Shrugging his shoulders.] 

If you no further are advanced, then must 
We long the threat'ning danger bear! So long, 
Perhaps, that the hour may have slipped by 
When we the danger might have overcome. 

Card. Yourself to a chance's smile alluded but 
Just now? 

Arch. For what 'tis worth I'll use it free. 

You know with what eyes of a just concern 
And fear for long most of the Princes look 
Upon Franciscus. Unto him, alone 
Th' Elector Palatine clung fast. Indeed 
Not few the reasons are why he should thankful be 
To Franz. Now, then, it was in this that chance 
Did favor me to-day. The task was hard; 
But finally he yielded to the fear 
I conjured up in him, his interest 
As Prince as well. We, then, three Princes — I, 
The Palatine and Hesse's Philip — made 
To-day a compact — 

Card. 'Gainst Franciscus? 

Arch. 'Tis not so called, but is so meant. In all 
Appearance have we an olden treaty but 
Renewed, that formerly concluded was 
'Twixt Hesse, Treves and the Palatinate; 
A treaty of defence that binds us three 
Not only to protect the one the other, 
But also binds each one no peace to make 
Till all the three agree. 

Card.. [Significantly.] I understand the plan. 

Arch. Now, this is what I mean. Whatever Franz 
May undertake, myself I throw across 
His way — the forces of us three along 
With mine. The danger thus we may reduce 
Before it overtops and overwhelms us. 

Card. The news is tall that you report, and big 
The fruit may be that from its lap may leap. 

Arch. In times as evil as the present, one 

As great things trifles oft accepts, esteeming 
As actual help what yet is but a ray of hope. 

Card. You're right. The times are evil. Never yet 



m FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 

The Church has been so hard pressed, never yet 
Such dangers threatened even her palladium 
As now they do. That which these days will be 
Delivered of, the fruit whose seed's now sown 
At large, it threats the downfall of the Church. 

Arch. To whom speak you? To one whose hair the course 
Of these last years has painted white! That fruit 
No longer needs to grow or ripen. No. 
It ripened stands in fullest strength. If Luther 
Still further inroads should succeed to make; 
If swift destruction do not swiftly overtake him — 
The Vatican will sink, a heap of ruins! 

Card. Is't Luther that such fears fills you with? 

Arch. Who else? What other than this demon can 

You mean, who these four years with strokes that grow 
In boldness has assailed us, the realm 
Disturbed, and makes recruits in our own ranks, 
In ev'ry class makes friends? Four years, and still 
Unpunished goes! 

Card. Leave us alone for that! 

This Luther perish shall. He shall and must — 
But yet the real danger comes not from, 
Nor will it die with him. 

Arch. Oh, underrate 

Him not! Do not yourself deceive. This is 
No heresy. This time the problem is 
Not a Savonarola or an Arnold 
To oppose! The German spirit is in arms 
Against us. Luther is its standard bearer 
And battles at its head! 

Card. I hold him as you do. And yet the danger 
Looks not so near to me, as't does to you — 
And just for that, perhaps, but all the greater. 
Uneasy are you at the uncertainty 
Which side the Emperor will take. Also 
The leaning towards Luther of the nobles 
And many a Prince alarmeth you. The fact 
You overlook — our strength lies in the masses 9 heart. 

Arch. Just there is where he threatens it! 

Card. The task is greater than he could encompass. 
What took a thousand years to slowly spread, 
To entwine itself and one become with man's 
Acquired views, his feelings, habits, and 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Bl 



Unconscious does pervade his ev'ry thought — 

Think you all that could really succumb 

To this new and itself destroying doctrine, 

Which Faith on Sense, and Sense on Faith would bank? 

Which rests upon the witness of the mind. 

And yet would bind it to a word that's dead? 

Which takes a book as sent from God, and yet 

Will dare the same at will to interpret? 

Which grace and scrutiny, two opposites, 

Together jumbles seeking to combine? 

Ne'er from a doctrine that to heaven looks, 

Need her death-blow the Church to apprehend. 

So long as men believe, they will believe in ws/ 
Arch. You trust, then, in the Church's immortality? 

Speak ever thus! A hallowed certainty 

Your words my mind, with worry worn, infuse. 
Card. [Thoughtfully.'] You used th' expression immortality? 

In that word's folds lurk grim Medusa-heads, 

That turn to stone whom in the folds would spy. 
Arch. — I pray you speak. Express yourself in full, 

And do not palter in a double sense, 

Admitting danger, then denying it. 
Card. Do I deny it? Yet's Luther not the name! 

Its source I spy in quite another spring. 

The foe at our very breast lies nestled, 

And we, th' Italian Princes of the Church, 

We nourish it with our very blood. 

Accursed be the Danite gift that us 

The Moslem gave! When with the city's fall, 

The city of Constantine, the fleeing Greeks 

Arrived, transplanting, 'mong us spreading 

The ruins of their Arts and Sciences — 

That was the evil's start! With baneful fascination seized, 

Upon its neck hung, God-intoxicated, 

The Bembos, Medicis, the flow'r of all Italy; 

The serpent young they suckled into strength; 

And from th' eternal laws, with beauty's lines 

Instinct, there flowed a sense of Now and Here on Earth. Of 

A nobler mankind vague forebodings streamed 

Into the breasts of the believers in Hereafter, 

At first our handmaid, all the surer us to trick. 

From Raphael's Madonnas there peers forth 

Old heathendom's superb-divine grimace; 



m 



FttANZ VON SXCK1NGEN, 



And swellingly a dispensation new 

Is preached by Titian's flesh-tints! Out to all 

The peoples went the impulse by us given — 

In you its sanction finding. Reuchlin's struggles 

Revealed at last the impulse new that moved the world. 

Around you look ! Say, who, of Luther, are the props ? 

Was't among the friars' ranks this friar's quarrel 

Its first breath drew, or found its first support? 

The Huttens, Crotuses, Erasmus and Reuchlin — 

'Tis they who greet it with a clam'rous joy. 

The Humanists this great league styles itself, 

By its own name its secret letting out. 

A new Evangel of Mankind — behold 

The kernel hidden in this Proteus that 

Belligerent itself against us flings, 

With Luther but its first and quickly vanished slough! 

And just the pressure of our own resistance 

Promotes the sloughing process. Slough is cast off after slough; 
It waxes in the transformation; and it stands 
There in the fi'ry glow of its own light! 

Across the world it cries: 'Tis I!" The hearts of men it seizes; 

Writes Here on Earth, Fruition on its banner; 

Tears down the heavens; wildly roars through space 

And time, each newly spied-out law of Nature, 

Each find concealed in musty history, 

Into a bolt together welding, hurling 

Into the holiest of our creed, and raising 

An Evangel of Man with resoluteness 

Against that of the Son of Man! 

It then grows hot! Our pinions droop; from us 

The peoples then their faces turn away 

Towards the newly conquered bride — Reality, 

With ardor rushing in her luscious arms. 

Before Fruition's ruddy sun the dim 

Star of Beyond grows pale, it fades away, then 

Draws nigh the night of our theology! 

[He utters the last lines as if pursuing a vision with his 
eyes, and then continues with upioards outstretched 
arms.'] 

But no! How wonderful your ways are, Lord! 
Athwart the darkness unto light you lead us; 
Turn into triumph that which bodes destruction. 
Like unto a slave must threat'ning storms themselves 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



The throne thus forge that safer carries us. 

Arch. Your eyes irradiate, and over this 

Earth's face your spirit, God-raised, takes its flight. 

What lies at hand I clearly see, but to 

Your eyes the Future's book lies open wide. 

Unveil that which to you the spirit shows. 

How can the threat'ning danger bring us victory, 

Make safe that which our downfall does portend? 

Card. What now gives pain and loads our mind with care 
Is our Princes' hostile attitude, 
Who, envious of our power and failing to 
Perceive the demon, that they unsuspecting nurse, 
Array themselves upon our en'mies' side. 
And long still will this trying trial last. 
But when of time the cycle is complete, 
When that fell hour of danger has drawn nigh, 
The Kingdom of the Anti-Christ, announced before, 
When, wanton, on its own foundation, 
The Human Mind itself has planted — then 
The simultaneous hostile blow will merge 
The Bishop's crosier and the Prince's scepter! 
The turn-about will then set in — anew 
The temp'ral sword the Church's willing arm 
Will be; repentful to the mother's lap 
It will return; and then, a double chain, 
Inseparable in its iron embrace, 
The temp'ral and spiritual power 
Will strangling wind itself around the head 
Of th' Anti-Christ, the self-poised Human Mind! 
Then stand we safe in all the fullness of 
New might, and in proud Reason's corpse new root 
The Church's splendor strikes, from thence new sap inhales. 

Arch. Amen! does shout my heart for evermore! 

[The curtain closes.'] 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



ACT III. 

Scene I. — Ulrica's room at the Ebemberg, fitted out with hooks and 

arms. 

Vlrich. [Holding in his hand an open letter that he is staring into in 
wild amazement.] 
And Luther is pronounced under the ban 
At Worms! Along with him his followers, 

And all who give him shelter. Oh, Charles, oh, German realm — 
The worst that happen could has come to pass! 

[Pauses and again looks into the letter.] 
Th' Elector Frederick himself steps back 
Afraid; has seized him secretly, and to 
The Wartburg sent for safe concealment, 
For fear in sight of th' Emp'ror's wrath he could 
No longer free and openly protect him! 

[Throws himself into an arm-chair.] 
Oh, Germany! Oh, poor fatherland! 
Our last hope thus is wrecked! Your star of freedom, 
That o'er your firmament refulgent rose 
Unto my eyes, sets pale, and once again 
The dark night of before upon us closes. 

[Pauses looking blank before him.] 
Its raven plumage, flutt'ring jeeringly, 
It shroud-like spreads its pinions o'er the land, 
And silence once more reigns beneath the wing 
Of death — the silence of the tomb! 

[Covers his face with his hands, and resumes after a pause 
with deeply moved voice.] 
Where can there hope be left when the Emp'ror 
Himself, in Romish hands becomes of death 
An instrument, the death-blow deals the people's 
Heart? Where is hope when e'en the mighty Elector 
Despairingly withdraws ? 

[Is lost for a while in gloomy thoughts, then, jumping from 
his seat.] 

Where? In him, 
The Nation! He will rally it around 
Him. He it is who can and must. Aye, must! 
'Tis he alone can yet a saviour be. 
Up and away to him! To hurl in that 
Heroic soul the torch that burns my own, 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



55 



And set his German mind ablaze with rage! 
He will with mighty hand the fire-brand hurl 
Into the land, and kindle the wild flame 
Whence, Phoenix-like, shall Germany emerge! 

[He utters the last lines with increasing animation and 
rushes towards the door, but stops reflecting.'] 
And have you well reflected what you contemplate? 
Your friend would you in such a danger thrust, 
To a risky struggle drive that ruin fetch ; 
Perchance, his father's gloomy fate recall? 

[Pauses, and then proceeds in a quandary.] 
May your restless soul, entangling on 
Its own path what him lovingly approach, 
Expose the friend's head in th' uncertain game? 

[Pauses again.] 
But why with petty doubts, of him unworthy, 
To waver now and difficulties raise! 
No choice we have when duty bids. With us 
The power lies to achieve; the measure 
Of what we achieve, the duty, none the less, 
Imperiously prescribed are to man. 
He can achieve — his duty, hence, it is. 
Had I ten lives, I'd stake them all the ten ! 
And dare I from my friend expect aught less? 
And if we fail, the newly awakened life 
Of our land in blood being drowned, what worth 
Could life then have for me, or yet for him? 
Before such choice, where's room for hesitation! 
If we succeed, then Freedom's germ is saved, 
Whence shoot on shoot shoots off ; and e'en if 
Achievement's highest notch be not attained, 
The nation's ruin still he may avert. 

[Uttering the last lines toith increasing warmth, he rushes 
towards the door. Before reaching it, the door opens and 
Marie enters with a hook in her hand.] 

Scene II. — Uleich and Marie. 

Marie. It is, Sir knight, the hour now when you 
The ancient poets in our German tongue 
Have pleased to render me. Not with the songs 
That are your own you're satisfied to charm us — 
The noble thoughts, once culled by Rome's and Hellas' bards. 



56 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



The home-bred girl you have disclosed, the blossoms of 
All olden days, all nations, into a garland weaving, 
Whose fragrance sweet our souls to a higher world 
Intoxicated raises. 
Ulrich. [Who at the sight of Marie had first stood stock-still, and 
then stepped back a few paces.] 
Oh, God, and yet another trial! 
Marie. You spoke? 

[She looks at him more attentively, and is frightened at his 
appearance.} 

Sir knight, what ails you? Speak! You seem disturbed, 

Unhinged; your eyes, aflame, roam wild about. 

I never have thus seen you. For the love 

Of God, what ails you, Sir? I pray you speak! 
Ulrich. What torture! Oh, what horrid fate is mine! 

Her sire, the father of the well-beloved, 

Shall I expose to ruin and distress, 

Herself, perchance, an orphan make? 
Marie. [Who has been regarding him with increasing attention and 
alarm.'] You do 

Not answer? Ails you aught? Art angry at me? 

You still are silent, knight? What act of mine 

Deserved such treatment at your hand? 
Ulrich. I pray — 

Your pardon — noble maid — momentous matters — 

Affliction dire engage my time to-day. 

[Aside.] Oh, did she know the tortures of my soul! 

Oh, could she read within my bleeding heart 

The sentiments I feel for her — and what 
To her undoing I design ! 
Marie. Affliction, 

Is't that you said? What can it be? I beg of you! 

It cuts me to my very soul to see 

You, suff'ring thus, before me standing there. 
Ulrich. If she her tone but changed. Oh, did she know 

How her mild voice my heart in pieces cuts! 

I — can no more what still I must! 
Marie. Has some affliction sudden smitten you, 

Confide it unto me! That gives relief. 

You surely know to you I friendly feel — 

I, therefore, ask my share of what afflicts you* 

Myself and father faithfully will help 

You bear it! 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



57 



Ulrich. [Who has been visibly struggling with himself, now reso- 
lutely.] 

Your pinions free! Shake off with mighty stroke 
The body's idleness, the natal sin 
Hereditary with the race of man! 

[Rushes to the door, when it opens and Oecolampadius en- 
ters.'] 

Scene III. — The former; Oecolampadius. 

Ulrich. [Seizing Oecolampadius' hand and stepping back again.} 

Oh, pious Sir, Oh, reverend 

Oecolampadius! It hits you as myself. 

Have you the overpow'ring sad news heard? 
Oec. [Sorrowfully shaking his head.] 

I know it all. I come just now from Franz. 

Who imparted it to me. 
Ulrich. [Hurriedly.] And what says he? 

Oec. He nothing said. Upon his forehead lay 

The solemn earnestness of silence deep. 

But to my chamber I betook myself, 

My overrunning heart before our God 

To empty, and in prayer to seek strength. 

Oh, that this day's cup we should have to quaff! 
Ulrich. [With animation.] 

Despair not! There's nothing lost as yet. 

No Emp'ror yet shall, with his fiat, violate 

Our Nation's stronghold. German hearts still sit 

In German breasts, and our arms still own 

The cunning of their swords to swing! What now 

Oppresses you will soon removed be. 

[Moves with long strides towards the door but is held back 
by Oecolampadius.] 
Oec. How, Sir, do I correctly understand? 

You can not mean against th' Imperial Majesty 

To aim at a revolt? The doctrine pure 

Of th' Evangel with earthly force to stain? 

Does't need of that? Do you believe what's holy, 

The light of Truth and Reason, that to us 

Has given been, could ever in the course 

Of time succumb to Error, and could not 

By its own force the upperhand retain? 
Ulrich. [Still held back by Oecolampadius, takes a few steps back, 
and passionately.] 



58 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



My worthy Sir! You ill acquainted are 

With history. You're right — 'tis Reason that 

Its contents constitutes, its form is ever — Force! 

[Seeks again to escape, but is again prevented by Oecolam- 

padius, who steps in his way.] 
Oec. Reflect, Sir knight, would you our faith of Love 

With bloody weapons desecrate? Would you — 
Ulrich. [Partly nettled and with increasing heat.] 
My worthy Sir! Think better of the sword! 
A sword, for freedom swung on high, that, Sir, 
The Word Incarnate is of which you preach; 
It is the God, born of Reality. 
Christianity was by the sword extended — 
The sword was the baptismal waters, that 
The Charles we still with wonder name the Great, 
Baptized Germania with; the sword smote down 
Old heathendom; the sword the Saviour's tomb 
Redeemed! And further back, it was the sword 
That Tarquin drove from Rome, the sword that back 
From Hellas Xerxes whipped, and for our Arts 
And Sciences plowed up the ground. It was the sword 
That David, Samson, Gideon labored with. 
Thus, long ago, as well as since, the sword 
Achieved the glories told by history; 
And all that's great, as yet to be achieved, 
Owes, in the end, its triumph to the sword! 

[Forces his way out while Oeoolampadius vainly seeks to 

restrain him,] 

Scene IV.— Oecolampadius, Marie. 

Oec. He rushes off! Young lady, follow him; 

Oh, calm his turbulent designs, that, wrought 

Up by too just a pain, are blinding him. 

Bring back the knight to calmer thoughts and faith. 
Marie. I fain will, rev'rent Sir! I'll follow him. 

I'll seek him in the garden, where 'tis his wont, 

When overpow'red with brooding thoughts, to dwell. [Exit. 
Oec. [Alone.'] Oh, darksome days! Much mischief I forsee, 

Much guiltless blood at ev'ry corner flowing! 

Oh, Lord, with just hands turn it on the heads 

Of those with whom the heavy guilt does lie. 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



59 



Scene V. — Franz von Sickingen's cabinet. Fbanz steps in from a side 
room with two open letters in his handy and lays them on a desk. 
Later von Hutten. 

Franz. Two letters contents-laden! Oh, how different 
And yet upon the same point running out! 
Strasburg and Charles — 
Charles and Strasburg — both messages 
So opposite — and yet the two 
Like two threads, that, by spirits' unseen hands, 
In one web magically absorb the one the other. — 
[Pauses.] 

Charles! Charles! You ill my trust have verified. 
The ban 'gainst Luther! All hope now is dashed 
From your side! Of this realm th' Emperor, 
With th' Empire's foes you common cause have made! 

[Walks meditatively up and down.] 
And Strasburg — bravely have you wrought, 
My old and sturdy Sloer! You send me here 
The compact with the great Strasburgian. Of 
Lorraine the duke is long since joined to me — 
The duke of Bouilion too. With Strasburg now 
The whole of th' Upper Rhine is not alone 
Made certain to my side, a powerful 
Example it will be; and Swabia's, 
Bavaria's and Franconia's cities all 
Will join me readily. 

[Pauses and cogitates.] 
Distress's pressure worst, resistance's 
Best means — they both at one hour meet in my 
Hands fatally, as if upon some demon's call! — 

[Takes again a few steps in the room, lost in thought.] 
In twain, Charles, by your act you've torn forever 
Whatever bond — the Nation's Saviour 
I meant of you to make, the realm's restorer; 
With aching heart I saw you spurn the offer. 
Not yet you satisfied would be with cold 
Indulgence — th' extreme you dealt to us. 
But just from the extremest peril can 
The extremest safety unto us be born! 

[Pauses and then starts from the thoughts in ivhich he was 
lost.] 

This way, or that! — Yourself the iron dice 
Have cast to me and you. Firm and without 



60 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Uncertainty my will now rises, and 

Serene peace thrones within by breast, as only 

A purpose clean is able to engender. 

[Ulrich von Hutten enters.] 
There comes my Hutten! His pure soul shall be 
My compass to remove the last still ling'ring doubts. 

[Turns to Ulrich, who, with troubled mien and intently gaz- 
ing at Franz, has remained standing before him, and pro- 
ceeds, cheerfully.] 
My friend! The clouds of melancholy somber 
Are gathered on your brow. You seem disturbed! 
Ulrich. You know the weighty news from Worms? — 
Franz. Indeed ! 

Unfortunately I know it but too well. 
A sad tale 'tis. But let it not depress you. 
Come, I will tell you an amusing thing, 
Your somber mien to cheer again with mirth. 
Ulrich. Amusing ? 

Franz. Yes, indeed! There is a feud on, Ulrich! 

Give me your ear. The Archbishop of Treves, 

Elector Richard, Luther's bitt'rest foe — 

The same, who, in exchange for French gold crowns, 

Th' Imperial crown to Francis would have sold, 

Had I not put a mighty spoke into 

His wheel — has given me the handle for 

A merry treat. — You listen not ! 
Ulrich. [Starting up.] I do! 

Franz. You know that Hilchen Lorch has long at outs 

With Treves' Lord been, and gave him notice. Then 

He captured two of Treves' most noted men, 

And held them prisoners. Desiring both 

To be set free, their umpire me they chose, 

And I the matter settled so that they 

A ransom had to pay. They pledged themselves 

Upon the Bible. Lorch, then, on my bond, 

The two allowed to go. But now the priest, 

Th' Archbishop, exempts them from their oath, 

Inhibiting both payment and arrest. — 

The priest shall pay us through the nose. You will 

A chance have to shake off your melancholy. 

But, help me God, you listen not! 
Ulrich. [Seriously.] Excuse 

Me if, just now, when shipwreck threats the realm's 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Great cause, and shelterless upon the waves 

The Nation's tossed, such slight affairs affect me little. 

[Pauses, and continues with warmth.] 
And should not Sickingen so also affected be? 
Could it be possible you should delight, 
At these times' dire stress, your strength away 
To fritter on a petty feud? How, Sickingen! 
Could you contented rest within your burgs 
To idle lie, occasionally a lamb from 
The greedy wolf's devouring jaws to tear? 
You shelter me, as Reuchlin once you did. 
Whom does your shelter fail? Aquila, Hauschein, Bucer — 
How could I number all the freedom-preachers, 
Th' oppressed, who in your burgs, from priestly hate 
And tyranny, from Romish violence, 
A safe asylum found! But is that all 
The public stress may look for from your giant strength? 
Will you, intent upon the shelter of 
The individual lose from sight the greater whole? 
Is't that alone the stagg'ring weight, beneath 
Which bends Germania's freedom, killing and 
Debasing, gnawing at our people's marrow, 
Consuming our people's patrimony, 
With ban and papal bull its limbs benumbing, 
The greatness of our realm browbeating, and 
The Nation's upward flight towards the sense 
Of Freedom, which we wakened up, in one 
Death-dealing embrace body and soul at once 
Garrotting, — is that all the Nation's dismal plight 
May from her foremost hero dare expect? 

[Pauses and continues with warmth,] 
Look, Franz, 'tis only little souls that lag 
Behind their powers; great men all expend 
Their fullest faculties in a great cause. 
And when, within the trembling scale, his strength — 
Brought to the first touch, measured is with his 
Great aims — the tremor feels of hesitance, 
Then, confident does upward swing himself, 
A demi-god; behind him leaves dust's doubts; 
Burns up in holy inspiration's fire 
His earthy part; and storms, a Titan-like, 
Olympus e'en! Thus ancient legends tell 
About the Titan battles, fought eternally 



62 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



So long as there are men, and eke a purpose great! 

Franz, Speak plainly, Ulrich. What's your speech's aim? 

Ulrich. You plainness wish? And yet I spoke to you 
Of our country's public stress, that but 
Too plainly this broad realm in sorrow steeps, 
So that each sense to sight is turned to see it! 
I must declare, it is an odd mood that 
To-day I find you in! Not thus erstwhile, 
When of our common cause we used to speak, 
You acted, Franz! My faith — you seem, to-day, 
Quite frosty, Franz! 

Franz. You think so? 

Ulrich. Be it what it may, 

That for the moment is yourself from you 
Yourself depriving — quickly I shall call 
You back unto yourself. That cold tone lay 
Aside. Enkindle and inflame your will 
By proudly contemplating your own strength. 
Who stands like you, Franz, in the German lands? 
On you their hopes the friends of the new doctrine pin; 
On you the eyes are fastened of the Nation's ranks; 
The whole nobility their leader in you see; 
The towns seek your alliance, follow confident, 
Encouraged, when you lead, by your great name; 
On you alone the peasant places confidence, 
For ever have you been a rock unto the weak, 
And when oppression and fell violence 
With wrath his heart at our station fills, 
'Tis you he looks to in his hour of need. 
At your call, pike in horny hand, from all 
Around a peasant army bounds to life. 
When in the open field the "five-balls" waves 
From the far Danube, from Lorraine, from Belt, 
From th' Alpine slopes, where he in martial songs 
The fame of your prowesses sings, comes forth 
Th' enraptured lansquenet, and rallies to your flag. 
The princes fear you. The hostile camp 
Itself the Counter- Emperor have dubbed you, 
Thus homage rend'ring to your power e'en 
When they on insult are intent. Not so ? 

Franz. 'Tis as you say. 'Tis partly so. But while 
The oak majestically its shadow spreads, 
Shall I the axe apply to the strong trunk? 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 

Vlrich. In power lies the greatest boon of heaven — 
If it be put for a great cause to use ; 
A wretched toy when, used as tinsel merely, 
The arm it lames to which it is confided. 
How? Have you all your days your hard life vexed 
To make it great, and, for its reputation's sake, 
In hundred hard-fought battles hacked your limbs, 
In hundred feuds it painfully, increased, 
With high and low, with noble and plebeian, 
Your name's fame conquered inch by inch — and all 
In order now, when, full-blown, it your head 
A brilliant halo encircles, darts your fame's 
Rays far and wide in burg and hut, to give 
It up a hopeless prey unto despair? 
In vain vagaries fondly now yourself 
To fondle? — Cursed be such power! Aye, 
The pow'r of God Himself were sinful vanity 
Had He not turned it to creation! 

[After a pause and with greater moderation.] 
And is it possible you otherwise 
Could think? Have not yourself with me the tracts 
Prepared that mightily the peasant's heart stir up, 
Intended to announce yourself the head 
And leader in the fray? Of Karsthans think — 
Of many a spark that we to flame have fanned! 
Can, at the moment critical, your mind 
Have changed? Your own will — that which I a word 
Of God have ever prized, unshakable, 
Unchangeable — could you't no longer will? 
No, Franz, impossible ! — You're silent still? 

Franz. I silence keep because one pleasure feels, 
Through lips as eloquent his own heart clear 
To see within. 

Vlrich. You're now yourself again! 

Franz. You err. Am now no nearer to you than 
I was at start; and at the start I was 
No further off. But speak. Show not the goal, 
But also show the path. So closely tangled 
On earth are path and goal, that each with th' other 
Their places ever change, and other paths forthwith 
Another goal set up. 

Vlrich. The path is obvious; only one can stead! 
Your banner fly ; an army raise ; around 



64 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



You call your allies; then, in arms, demand 
From th' Emperor the freedom of religion! 
The large towns all will gather 'round your standard; 
The Princes even, those inclined to 
The doctrine new, though envious of yourself, 
Are bound support to lend, at least could not oppose. 
Franz. The Emp'ror's abdication in religion — 
Is't that you mean that I should conquer? 
It is just that that I will not! — Have care, 
Lest on such path the game's stake swallow up 
The gains. 

Ulrich. And what price were too high to pay 

Where freedom of the mind at issue is? 

Franz. [Rising and deliberately.] 

Till now has Rome our realm but only ruled — 
Shall she also partition it? 

[After a short pause.] You know 
How to the doctrine new I am attached, 
How with my whole soul Rome I hate; but yet 
Am I no creed's-doctor ! And just for that, 
Especially for that, I hate her — she 
The greatness of our realm changed to decline; 
The Nation's one-time splendor to a puny, 
A wretched shadow dimmed; the pinions clipped 
With which the German mind sought on its own 
Track up itself to raise! From the fourth Henry 
Down to the second Frederick, where was there 
An Emp'ror, where a heart, that greatness sought 
To achieve for our realm, and found not at 
His heel that serpent ? Through her bishops Rome 
Has ruled the realm; through her collections 
On palliums, annats, dispensations, she 
The land drained dry; her bans and priestly wiles 
The princes gave in hand the means, pretexts 
Our Emp'rors' hands to weaken, and themselves 
As autocrats above the realm to raise; 
She finally has so degraded us 

As to become our own strong neighbor's laughing-stock- 
No less than me, that ever has incensed you, 
And that is what you wish to stop! 

Ulrich. [Impetuously.] My blood, 

Its ev'ry drop I'd gladly stake on that! 

From. And is it stopped though we from th' Emperor 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



65 



The freedom conquer for the doctrine new? 

Would, therefore, Rome less powerfully rule 

The realm through her priest-princes? Would the land 

Be drained less within the papist districts? 

Nay, worse: I clearly foresee what would 

Result. Could you rest satisfied to see 

The doctrine pure, the W T ord, for our salvation 

Announced to us, sunk to — a Princes' privilege; 

Its boundary finding at each dukedom's frontier; 

And, as of accident the whim would throw 

Unto the Pope this Prince, to Luther that, 

To win or to succumb? Would you the common cause 

Turn into a rulers' cause? 
Vlrich. [To himself,] True! But too true! 

Franz. Nor yet is all this yet the worst. The worst 

Still comes ! 

Ulrich. [Desperately.] What demon's raven eloquence 

Dwells on your tongue that e'en the hope of life 

You turn to death within me? 
Franz. True, the right 

Word have you said! Have care lest we ourselves, 

In lieu of life, the death-blow deal the Nation! 

Such abdication in religion parts 

Our land in twain, not merely in two parts — 

A Romish and an Evangelic — 'twould 

Be torn to pieces in a hundred shreds! 

Dissevered would the last bond be that still 

The Emp'ror and the realm together binds. 

A Kaiser then each Prince on his domain becomes! 
[Laughing bitterly.] 

And that's the reason of their friendship for the doctrine new! 

— You know in what esteem I hold the Princes; 

'Tis them, next to the Pope, whom most I hate, 

Abhor. 'Tis they who are the real foe 

Of our realm's and of the public freedom. 

Concupiscent, their boundless-selfish guild 

Its greedy claws distends at ev'ry rank's 

Respected rights across the Empire's broad domain. 

At heart they're equally the foe of nobles, 

Of townsmen and of peasants. If they now 

Hate most the nobles, seem the towns to favor, 

It is because for us they still have fear. 

The moment we cease dangerous to be, 



66 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



How soon, the towns to oppress, on our side 
They'll lean ! Ambition only dwells within 
Their hearts, dead to the common weal, and swells 
Them like a sponge, the public safety's life-sap 
Unto itself absorbing. How! Shall I 
Myself turn into a bridge for their malign 
Ambition? 'Gainst the Emp'ror's majesty 
My sword for such a purpose draw ? This great 
Empire, that once did rule the world, and whose 
Crown still is thought the first in Christendom, 
Torn up into a hundred bits, at them 
For booty throw? — May God preserve us, Ulrich! 
Then would we stand at our Nation's grave, 
At Germany's and at the German mind's 
Funereal bier. The diggers of its grave 
Would we then be, and not its glad awak'ners! 
You wish the mind's development to mightily promote, 
And do you think that if the realm were torn 
Into a thousand strips, and nothing but 
A waste of large and small proprietors 
Became, there could — amidst such landlordships, 
Capriciously together thrown, and greedy 
Of rank, each its own aims pursuing — 
A great mind rise? 'Twere an illusion! 
No longer strikes the draft of history 
Across such small proprietorships. You might 
As well a storm seek to unchain within 
A cup of water. It the broad expanses loves, 
Where it may freely rage. Then would have dawned 
The heyday of the petty trader, who 
Knows naught above his petty truck! 
All intellectual rage would shrink and shrivel; 
The strictly selfish, nearest only hold; 
In wretchedness the souls would rust; and down 
Would sink that ancient heroism, that mighty 
From our country's history resounds, 
That once the breasts of heroes moved, that in 
Our ears a call to duty clings; — with it 
The spirit also dies away. Oh, never 
From pigmies' wombs could giant souls be strained. 
Ulrich. Franz, do you of your people's future then 

Despair ? And can your mouth the dark fate of destruction 
Thus o'er the Nation cast? 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



67 



Franz. [Deeply moved.] 

I sooner of my own salvation would 

Despair than idly of the fatherland 

Lose hope! Not that I meant! I would my own 

Skin gladly take to market for the great 

Cause, for the true weal of the land. What we 

Desire is an integral, a great 

And pow'rful Germany; the wreck of all 

Priest-regiment; a complete rupture with 

The Roman system; our country's church, 

And only one, the doctrine pure; the old 

Communal freedom of the Germans; 

Destruction of the Princes' dwarf-regime, 

And their usurped intermediation; 

And, resting on the times' potential trend, 

Deep casting in its soul our roots, to raise 

One Evangelic head as Emp'ror of 

Our mighty realm! — Behold, it is but your 

Own soul I raise a mirror to your face. 
Ulrich. [Shrugging his shoulders.] 

True is the picture. But can you as much 

From Charles hope? Never! Never will he start 

On such a giant enterprise! Can you 

Your mind amuse with sketching fancy-pictures, 

Of whose reality there is no shadow? 

From pious wishes no help comes to us. 
Franz. [Slowly and with emphasis.] 

On Charles to still hang hope — that were insanity. 

No more of him! In his breast Prince and priest 

The Emperor have killed. 
Ulrich. [Impatiently.] 

On what, on whom, then, do you still hang hope ? 

What Prince — 
Franz. [Interrupting.] Forsooth, on no Prince either! 
Ulrich. You, locked-up secret, break to me your seal ! 

Not on this rack, I pray you, keep me longer ! 

Your brow a prodigy announces, meditates! 
Franz. [After walking back and forth several times across the room, 
remains standing pensively before Ulrich.] 

See how it haps that small things oft to great 

Ones lead, and just through their trivial cover, 

Like unto a magic hand-clasp, means become 

Whereby man may the greatest ends work out, 



68 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



And chance itself to fate's decree convert; 

— Recall you what I shortly said before, 

Anent a pending feud with th' Archbishop of Treves f 

The priest, I said, forbade his townmen both 

To pay or to return to prison. — Why, 

You listen not! 

Ulrich. I do! I do! I heard it. 

Franz. The matter now reverts to me, who, on 
Their prayers, became their bondsman. Now, 
Meseems, I thus have solid ground to act — 
Against th' Elector to declare war. 

Ulrich. And what concerns this paltry affair our 
Great cause? 

Franz. 'Tis just this matter's paltriness 

That by a Providential dispensation 
To the great cause the vict'ry gives! I draw 
With armed force 'gainst Treves, and none will in 
The move suspect aught but an ev'ry day 
Occurrence — a reprisal for a sum. 
And none, except, perhaps, a prescript from 
The Reichstag — helpless slip of paper — will 
Th' Elector come to help. Is he alone, 
One half of my own forces will suffice 
To take the town. Then, once with Treves within 
* Ty pow'r th' Elect'ral hat, torn from the priest's 
Head, I then boldly clap upon my own. 
Since long, the temporalization of 
Th' Elect'ral hats has been the deep-mouthed cry, 
Throughout the land, with all who dearly hold 
The new faith. Then, besides, Charles little loves 
Th' Elector. Has not yet th' intended trade 
With France forgot. And have I once bagged that 
Strategic place — and who is there to hinder me? — 
My whole strength then I can deploy ; call all 
Our friends to arms around me ; boldly, then, 
The dance I can sustain with th' Emperor 
And realm. 

Ulrich. It would a hard blow be to Rome! 

'Withal, a breach for th' Evangelium! Still — 
Franz. Allow me that I finish. Prologue but 

It was, the prelude only to still weightier acts. 

Once does th' Elect'ral hat this brow ornate — then — 
Ulrich.. [Intently following Franz.] 



FKANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



69 



Then?— 

Franz. [Drawing close to Ulrich and in a loud voice.'] 

Am I of the wood that — Emperors are carvfcd from! 
[Ulrich looks dumbfounded; after a short pause Franz proceeds.'] 

I know, high treason are my words. And yet 

It is not idle vanity that lures me. 

May evil overtake me if I be 

By greed to greatness lashed! The Nation's rude 

And dire distress, th' imperious mandate of 

The times alone impel my thought. But one 

Of us two could this arduous task fulfill : 

Charles — or myself ! I see no third who could. 

How would I not have wished that he in his 

Imperial hand the task had seized — myself 

A desp'rate effort made to enlist his heart. 

It was in vain ! Deaf to his Age's call, 

To Germany's loud plaint for freedom dead, 

By priests and Spanish courtiers ruled, he scorned 

The proffer! — Thus I manfully myself 

Consign unto the irksome fate decreed 

To me. Not on myseli, on it let fall 

The grave responsibility. Beyond 

My duty to the Emperor goes far 

The duty that the Nation's life, the cry 

Of woe that now goes up from German freedom, 

The threatened ruin of the fatherland 

Upon me lay ! 'Twas I who him the crown 

Secured. In that a strange fate I perceive, 

A double warning readily revere — 

What I on him have thrown away, away 

Again to take. — And now, my friend, I'm ended! 

If you another path to the same goal 

Know of, speak! Ready am I to strike it. — 

'Tis now my turn to ask: You're silent, Ulrich? 
Ulrich. [Solemnly.] 

I silence keep because my soul vibrates 

With th' hour's overpowering solemnity. 

How great, Oh, hero, stand you there unveiled! 

This hour unto your holy enterprise 

My clean heart and its ev'ry drop of blood 

I consecrate! And though recruits and troops 

I can not to your camp contribute, yet 

Good work I'm ready for. The pen shall drum 



70 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



The long roll; shall the people fill with awe; 
Shall bring half Germany into your camp, 
The moment you are faced with the Emperor ! 
A giant pinion will I spread, that, eager, 
Shall carry you to your triumphant goal ! 

[They rush into each other's arms, and a while remain in close 
embrace.'] 

And when will start the feud 'gainst Treves ? 
Franz. Equipped am I without delay the dance 

'Gainst Treves to start. — 

A seemly force have my recruiters drummed 

Together; and they're gath'ring also 

Near Strasburg, that has just joined hands with me. 

From thence the field against the walls of Treves I'll take. 

But still, of Swabia, and Franconia, and 

The Rhine domains the whole nobility 

To Landau have I first convened, in order 

That firmly they unite with me, and stand 

Me powerfully by in bonds defensive as 

Offensive. Thither I depart upon the spot. 
Ulrich. I follow you to Landau, 
Franz. No; I have 

For you some other work. Yourself shall go 

To the Elector Albrecht, to Mayence. 

You know, the Brandenburger is my friend of old; 

Has many a spin with me gone through, and loves you too. 

He is unto the better cause not lost. 

Within his wavering breast, the Old and New 

Are wrestling fiercely. When the new faith 

As Archbishop he persecutes, 'tis done 

In seeming, 'gainst his wish. Go you to him. 

He is the neighbor of the Trevain priest. 

Must not assist him. Then also, I must 

On his domain cross o'er the Rhine. I wish 

The bridges free to find. — It were, indeed, 

The best thing he decide full openly, 

And on the field, with force of arms, to give 

Me aid. 'Twould help appearances, and would 

Some meddlers keep from mixing in th' affair. 
Ulrich. You think he might so far himself adventure 1 
Franz. Impossible 'tis not ! I long have seen 

Through him. He fain th' Elect'ral hat he wears 

Into a temp'ral would transform upon 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



His own head. Also thence to Luther's doctrine 
We see him drawn. But that might long hang fire. 
With him the bridge is long 'tween Wishing and 
Deciding. Tell him that Franciscus says 
'Tis now a deed for deed. He knows my word's 
As good as th' Emperor's or realm's And, now, 
Farewell. Your cousin tell that I expect him; — 
In camp before the walls of Treves you'll find me again. 
[Embraces JJlrich and departs.] 
Ulrich. [Following Mm ivith Ms eyes.'] 

Oh, what a hero! Not a virtue of all, 
That in the demi-gods of ancient days, 
That in the song-immortalized men 
Of Rome or Hellas we with wonderment 
Admire, but reproduced is in this 
One man enhanced in brilliancy ! 

[In the act of leaving, Marie enters.] 

Scene VI. — Ulkich; Marie. 

Marie. You here, Sir knight? 

[Observing Mm closer.] And what a change has o'er 
You come in this short interval. Your sight 
Affrighted me, as shortly ago you left 
Me; now I find you again with cheerful mien! 
Your eyes beam joy; the soul's contentment laughs 
From every trait. With deep peace blending wonderfully, 
Warm inspiration's fires flame and light your brow. 

JJlrich. The reason is I found the soul's physician, 
Who promptly has restored my peace of mind. 

Marie. [With animation.] 

How happy that makes me. 

[Embarrassed and more moderately.] 

i meant to say 
It makes me very glad — for your sake — mine 
Also — no, for my father's sake. — You must 
Not listen to my words. The rapid change 
Of sentiments has quite confused me. 
Enough. I'm glad. The fine days come again, 
That I had thought had fled. The happy home, 
The Muses' lovely seat, that you this burg 
Have turned, remains unscathed, and once again 
I listen to your words, when Poetry's 



72 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Great flights, the songs of old antiquity, 
To us you deign reveal. 
Ulrich. My noble maid I 

The day's alarums now the Muses' song 
Must hush. And yet not so. I falsely did 
Myself express. Unto reality 
Wills poetry to raise itself. Its rhyme 
Recasting, strikes out in the world. I hence 
Must go; young lady, a flying farewell must 
I bid you. 

Marie. [Alarmed.'} How? You mean to leave this burg ? 

Ulrich. This very hour. 

Marie. [With increasing anxiety."] 

And whither ? Why ? Do you 

To us again come soon? 
Ulrich. I hope not long ! 

I draw to field, young lady. 
Marie. [Deeply anxious.] To field? 

You, Ulrich? An uprising — My presentiment, Oh, God! 
Ulrich. You Ulrich said? And in that tone? Marie! 
Marie. [Falls into his arms semi-conscious.] 

Ulrich! 

Ulrich. No! No illusion this can be! 

Marie, you love me as yourself I love! 
Marie. [Returning to herself, tears herself from TTlricWs arms and 

flees distracted to the other end of the cabinet, but looks 

back towards Ulrich, who, with hands outstretched towards 

her, remains where he stood.] 
Oh, God, did 1 aught say? I nothing said. 
No, nothing said I ! Do you hear ? — and yet — 

[Transported by her affection.] 
Yes — yes — I did say! Take wings, 
My girlish prudery, unworthy simulation! 
Is he a man like others? Why should that 
Ashame me that with pride my breast does fill? 
What can on earth a woman greater do 
Than him to love ? — Is't not as though my own 
All that in you is great and noble, all 
You have achieved and are, I made? in your soul's high 
Flight took a share ? and shared your mighty deeds, 
If I love you? — 

When love ennobles and upraises us — 
.Why not with gladness, like 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



To a devotion freely yield to it? 

Yet who am I to dare to you my eyes 

To lift? The pow'r is given us, is't fair, 

Before our eyes the model, 

The luminous, to see, and should we not 

In our hearts' recesses burn for it? 

Yes, Ulrich — I confess it — yes, I love you, 

Love you with all the strength of a pure breast, to which 

You stand for the ideal in mankind! 

I love you — and watch, that which, while these words flow, 

My brow inflames is but the blush of inspiration, 

And not of shame ! I early felt my heart 

Incline to you, when at the court of Albrecht 

I learned to know you. There, the mirthful child 

Resistless your earnest mind drew to it ! 

Around your head fame spread a halo, Ulrich, 

That partly frightened, partly fascinated me. 

At mention of your name the best men's blood 

Was stirred; and when you spoke it sounded in 

My childish mind a voice from upper spheres. 

I knew not that I loved you — this alone 

I knew, all other men beside you seemed 

So small, so very small to me! But since 

With us you've been; since all the treasures, that 

Within your heart you carry, you've unlocked 

To me; since you to new life and new thought 

The child's soul nursed to maturity — 

I then became aware I lovfcd you ! 

If, Ulrich, you as much can give me, then 

Am I the happiest woman e'er on earth — 

And can you not — it ne'er will sadden me 

That I the greatest could and had to love I 

Ulrich. Angelic soul! 

Long in my heart, in silence, have I loved you; 
But ne'er from me the secret had you learned, 
Had you not now yourself my tongue set free. 

Marie. Then will I prize the fright that overcame 
Me, first — and then the courage gave! But, Oh! 
Recalling it, the shadow falls upon 
My heart again, as if the hand of fate 
The clear notes of my joy was stifling. 
To field you draw. Said you not so ? To field, 
Perhaps to something far more serious than 



74 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



A simple feud? — Against whom, tell me! 
Ulrich. Against th' Elector Bichard, Archbishop of Treves, 
Marie. Against him only ? Mighty man he is, 
And yet I'm glad it is against him only. 
I feared worse ! But no more fear for me ! 
Since from my lips my secret fled, meseems 
A ton-weight from my heart I've rolled off. 
It seems fresh courage thrills my frame since then ; 
It seems I only now have found myself! 
The sun now shines around me joyfully; 
I laugh into the world; and lovingly 
The world responds into my heart. No! No! 
It can not be — I can not at one time 
Have found, and then have lost you ! Tell me, do 
You, Ulrich, not believe, like me, in destiny? 
Ulrich. The Universe's scheme may rest on it; 
In its own wisdom planfully itself 
O'erthrowing, it to its own goal leads itself, 
Its own track never losing, despite all 
Its windings — just as with the choral dance 
That only seems to go apart and in 
Disorder to dissolve, yet, centrally 
To order e'er obedient, uninterrupted 
Its sinuous course pursues. Aye, e'en what to 
The dull sight of a day as hindrances 
Appears, is but the means to this world's destiny, 
To whose completion it its own plans lays. 
[Pauses.] 

The individual stands on chance's powder-magazine ; 
Exploding, in the air it hurls him far, 
Marie. No ; wrong you are ! Because you men for naugnt 
But for the lump have heart, you'll grant nor love 
Nor order but to that. I certain am 

I'll see you again. My heart says so! In laurel wreathed 

You will return from this affray. Before 

My father then you'll step, applying for 

His daughter's hand — and then we'll happy be. 
Ulrich. [Struggling with himself.'] 

I marry you ? Oh, never ! 
Marie. Heard I right? 

You will not marry me ? Perhaps you fear 

My father may my hand to you refuse? 

Believe it not! I know he loves you so, 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Aye, almost as myself! He'll not refuse. 
Ulrich. [Gloomily.] 

It is not that! — I cannot marry you! 
Marie. [Steps back covering her face with her hands.'] 

Ulrich! 

Ulrich. [Deeply distressed.] 

What you, Marie, have told me has 

Undying happiness afforded me — 

STet, like the phantom of a dream, it must 

Dissolve. Let ev'ry word be wiped out. 
[Turning his face away.] 

Yourself take back! I can not, may not bind 

You to me! 

[Passionately.] 

Shall I also this sweet child 

Entangle in my life's erratic whirl? 

To daily, trembling, see her head upon 

The wild volcano of my own existence? 

Shall I her also carry down with me 

If, on my erring path, I clash with this 

Terrestrial ball, in hundred pieces dashed, 

And cast away? Oh, never may that be! 
Marie. [During the last lines her hands from her face removing. 

You seem to rave! I hardly understand you — 

I hardly heard you. When you — spurned me away, 

I felt as if the roaring billows 

Had broken over me. 
Ulrich. Mistake me not, Marie! I may not weave 

Your life into this life to struggle used! 

As far as back my eyes can reach, they fall 

On all the wretchednesses men eschew. 

Oh, knew you but one half of my sad fate, 

You would then understand me — and yourself 

Would shrink from the mishap, a wedded bride, 

This tempest-tossed being's fate to share. 
Marie. How grossly unjust towards yourself you are! 

You, Ulrich, on whom bountifully 

Her gifts by Nature was bestowed, call you — 
Ulrich. [Passionately interrupting her.] 

My heels a demon dogs, the germs themselves 

Of happiness to unhappiness converting. 

But barely eleven years, the gifts perceived 

In me condemned me to a living grave. 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Within the cloister-walls of Fulda was 

I, by my father's will, a monk condemned 

My sunny life to mourn away. Five years 

Did I endure. Then, by the spirit seized, 

A lad then of sixteen, the cloister's gloom 

I fled. To Erfurt went, in its high school, 

Renowned wide, with greedy draughts to quench 

My thirst for learning. Violently incensed. 

At such a step, my sire his hand from me 

Withdrew — from strangers' charity thenceforth 

My meager sustenance I had to beg! 

But what cared I ! The golden treasures of 

Antiquity had shortly been unlocked! 

With ardor at its breast I lay, its milk 

Of freedom, that imperishable, fresh 

Flows forth, my mind intoxicating; 

In long draughts from its poets' lustrous thoughts 

The breath of a majestic, freer mankind 

In my distracted soul absorbing! 

But as the comet draws its train along, 

Misfortune followed at my ev'ry step. 

I was at Erfurt not a year — the pest 

Came and the school broke up! Pursuing, smiting, 

Away the demon of the scourge drove with 

His flaming sword the teachers and the taught! 

I then went to Cologne, the University. 

In undisturbed bloom reigned there, as still 

They do, the hostile crew to knowledge, the 

Dark-browed and black-robed dastard screech-owl breed, 

That vampire-like the blood of mankind drain. 

There densest Ignorance holds supreme sway — 

The flame-spewing monster that to death consigned 

Arnold von Tungern, Gratius, many more ! 

Whate'er you say — it knows one answer only: 

The flames it ever conjures down on you! 

Not that flame that enlightens and gives warmth — 

Oh, no! It knows none other than the stake's 

And pyre's stupid glow. Be't true or false 

What you may say, its fiat is but — Fire ! 

If right — fire\ Wrong — fire I Fire is its substance. 

From its throat ever tongues of flame shoot up! 

There, having to other youths, devoted, 

The charms of ancient poetry unveiled, 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



The thunderbolt was swiftly hurled at me. 
For that offence with shame I was expelled 
As a seducer of the youth, and a 
Contemner of religion. — The staff again I took. 
In Frankfort-on-the-Oder, distant far away, 
A new asylum of enlightenment 
Was founded, Science's new seat. Among 
The lib'ral arts' instructors here I lived 
With kindred minds in loving circle. 
But here a shocking illness seized my limbs, 
With frightful fangs upon my marrow gnawing, 
Of which I never have been wholly healed. 
Then, hardly cured, my ever restless spirit 
Again possessed my mind. I felt impelled 
To join, with science, life. I grope after 
Reality. I craved to see the peoples, 
The nations, cities of the world. I took 
Ship at an East Sea port. Alas ! the ship 
Could not support me, broke down under me!— 
Marie. Distressful ! 

Ulrich. Stripped of all, half famished reached 

I Griesenwald. But thence unworthy men's 
O'erbearing pride drove me away. I went — 
But yet could not their hate escape. I fell 
The prey to foot-pads, and was left half naked 
The road with my own blood to warm, alone, 
In helpless misery amid the winter's frosts. 
The full way's length my trail red-painting, 
I dragged myself a dying waif to Rostock. 

Marie. Oh, poor man! And not one ray of light 
In that long night? 

Ulrich. Call it not night, but agony! 

The ray did fall. To my eyes it revealed 
In clear light the purpose of my life — 
An endless chain of agonies the spring. 
It was not long after that time, when fresh 
The hatred of the priesthood flarfcd up, 
Anew against the sciences' great strides. 
They felt that at the breath of th' ancients' thoughts 
The monks' creed-tyranny, flagitious web, 
Would melt away, and on the mind's bright wings 
The love of freedom penetrate the masses' heart. 
The germ of freedom in its germ was to be nipped ! 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



The Nestor of Germanic science, Reuchlin, 
As the first victim was selected; on 
His venerable head the deadly blow 
Was aimed. The conflict with Cologne broke out. 
On Reuchlin's works th' anathema of the Church 
Was cast. From Erfurt, Paris, Mayence and Louvain 
The faculties pronounced his book heretical; 
And in Cologne, the German hot-bed of 
The priests' malignity, it was in a 
Procession solemnly consigned to flames. 
All Germany was in intense commotion; 
The champions of the intellect around 
Reuchlin disposed themselves, on th' other side 
The friar-mendicants' and scholiasts' 
Close ranks. Like Guelph! and Ghibelline ! the cry 
Of battle rung, the land in sides dividing. 
My life's aim all at once before my soul 
Unveiled stood, that first was but surmise. 
The impulse towards science, the impulse to reality, 
That until then my breast in twain had torn, 
To a common and a satisfied end 
Now blended were. I now knew why I lived, 
And to what end on th' anvil of adversity 
I had so fiercely been beaten hard ! 
As on the seas the tumbling billow topples down, 
As on the beach the surf is dashed back again, 
So I, with eyes aflame, with quiv'ring zeal, 
Seized with voluptuous rage, rushed headlong in 
The formidable fray. Of wrath the axe, 
Of irony the spiked club I swung 
With crushing force upon the en'my's head; 
Amid all Europe's loud applause and her 
Uproarous laughter's ring, I pilloried 
His wretched being on the stage of parody. 
But thus a mob of enemies I raised 
Unto myself, who with me wrestle and 
Whom I, opposing, wrestle with incessantly 
For life and death, breast pressing against breast. 
[Pauses. [ 

To Italy I felt myself drawn irresistibly — 
I ached upon my en'mies fest'ring sores 
To place my fingers, and the full abysmal 
Depth of decay to probe. Again I took 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



The staff. In garments soiled and torn, by th' alms 

Of kindly hearts a beggar's life living, 

I wandered through Bohemia, Austria and Tyrol. 

[Marie makes a mute gesture of horror.'] 
Oh, maid, shall I narrate to you how, at 
Pavia, once, in my own lodging, I 
By th' enemy beseigM was, myself 
Thought lost, and deeming that my suff'rings' end 
Had come, my own death dirge in verse had sung? 
How I was captured and escaped, and then, 
By fever's frost and, worse yet, poverty 
And want — that, viper-like, in wild delight 
Fed on my worn-out frame — was broken on 
Their rack. Or how by hunger, that no choice 
Allowed me, a common lansquenet in Italy 
In th' Emperor Maximilian's army I listed! 
And how — 

Marie. [In an agony of despair interrupting.] 
Oh, Ulrich, stop! I can no longer 
The awful story hear! I meant you long 
Ago to interrupt, but fear seemed 
My tongue to lame, to rob me of speech — now, screwed 
To a higher pitch, returns it back to me. 
Distressful is your long-drawn agony! 
Is't possible for suff'ring thus to heap 
Itself upon one head, and that, your own, 
Oh, Ulrich! Is it possible that one 
Man could endure so much ? — I only knew 
The sunshine of enjoyment, and no thought 
Had I of its dark shadows. 'Tis to me 
As though your dreadful tale upon the buds, 
That in my heart toward the joy of light 
To breathe have striven, now, like a simoon 
Falls parching, blighting, 'neath its deadly breath 
One after th' other with'ring! Like a sense 
Of ill presentiment it thrills my frame. 
Oh, stop ! To hear also is to experience ! 
A moment pause — 

Ulrich. [Interrupting.] No longer may I pause 
Than did my chain of sorrows make a halt. 
If, maid, it pleased you me to love, you must, 
Before all else, the curse know that pursues me. 

Marie. On you a curse? You misinterpret me! 



80 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



You will not frighten me. From love for you 

My soul is harrowed by the shocking tale. 

And yet the very sorrow's long-drawn chain 

But all the more unto my woman's heart 

Endears you. The mother loves the child of pain — 

[8 tops suddenly.'] L 
No, Ulrich, no! On your head rests no curse! 

Ulrich. No curse say you ? You err, Marie ! It is 
The mightiest, most relentless one of all, 
That in the fury of his love, God on 
A mortal's head hurls down! Oh, ever true 
Remains the fable told of old! — 
When once upon a time, in ancient Rome, 
A pit's mouth yawned, the city threat'ning with 
Destruction, then the Oracles said this : 
The dearest only thrown into th f aoyss 
The gods can pacify. And, lo, unto 
His horse the spurs applying, clad in war's 
Full panoply, down Curtius leaped, himself 
Unto the subterranean god devoting. 
The test must leap into the rift of time; 
O'er their bodies only does it close, 
Their bodies only are the seldom seed, 
From whence the people's freedom, tree luxuriant, 
Sprouts up the world to bless — and that the curse 
Is that upon the best is laid, and which, 
A demon like, themselves, and all whom them approach, 
To ruin doom! 

Marie. Well, then, that curse will I — 

How gladly! — share with you. The blow that smites 
You, Ulrich, let it also smite myself. 

Ulrich. Brave girl ! It well befits you so to think ; 
But would it equally befit myself 
To such a dreary sacrifice give my consent? 
He solitary must the world's path tread, 
Who to the pow'rs of death himself has consecrated. 
Marie ! I would no longer with my sorrows' 
Minute recital rend your tender heart. 
The veil let's draw upon the sep'rate lines 
Of the great tragedy that I have lived. 
But one thing you must know. For many a year 
I bore in stillness mean, disgraceful poverty, 
Until my father died. Now fell to me, 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



The first born, all my fani'ly's large estate. 
Was I, whose plans to daily turmoil drove, 
My brothers, aye, my mother's head to bind, 
To entangle with my fate? I would not that! 
My whole inheritance I now renounced; 
Renounced all joys of life that kindly wealth, 
Reclining on possession's certainty, 
With bounteous hands upon our head bestows. 
A beggar I remained, now as before — 
And nothing, nothing but my sword and pen 
I call my own. For brothers and my mother 
I took that course — and should I less do for 
Yourself? 

[Marie seeks to interrupt him.'] 

No; interrupt me not, Marie! 
And if you should succeed my doubts to still, 
Have you the consequences to myself 
Reflected? — Until now, when mishap's whirl 
Against life's ragged edges smote me pitiless, 
I still was happy: I had preserved my mind's 
Serenity. But if the surf would toss 
Me henceforth on the crags ; if, arm in arm 
With me, I saw you, dear girl, against 
The sharp rocks beaten, saw you suffer what 
Myself have suffered — saw imprisonment, 
And flight, and exile, all the earthly 
Ills known to man, in one crown woven, and 
That crown of thorns forced on your guiltless head, 
Your head, where only joy, so far, did dwell; 
If I your brave, angelic countenance 
Beheld, your pain concealing, doubly thereby 
Racked; saw you smiling, my load thus to ease — 
Think you, Marie, that 1 could bear that? 
What I have so far borne was but misfortune's show. 
What were my sufferings then? 
I then was one, at one with my own self ! 
My serene soul, my steeled, goal-conscious heart, 
My inner happiness — no power strong 
Enough to rob me of! The untamed force 
That e'er my soul with pleasure filled, and e'er 
The blows of fortune with renewed pride 
Repelled — that force you would forever crack; 
Division introduce into my breast; 



82 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



The shield of adamant, that 'gainst a world 
Of enemies protected me, untie ; 
The armor from me strip, so that, at last, 
The en'mies sword the long and vainly looked-for 
Aperture to the red life of my heart 
Could find! Internal discord, only source 
Of real unhappiness, you would within 
My breast enkindle. Were I to behold 
You suffering, Marie, would not each grief 
A barb be, tearing at the promptings of 
My heart ; imparting an opposing fever to 
My soul; in horrid, desp'rate conflict 
The structure of my fortitude dissolve? 
Shall I the bitt'rest dregs of sorrow taste ? 
To cause you torture shall I call you mine ? 
The blow that strips me of my only boon, 
What from me, alone, no evil fate can take — 
That strength of joy, the soul's serenity — 
Shall that blow smite me from the hand of love? 
In front, Death and intensest Hate my life assail; 
And in the rear, Love threatens with despair's flail! 
Marie. [Slowly and as if to herself.] 

The maid in one night ripens into woman ; 
'Tis said one single day of deep affliction 
The glossy hair upon the skull can whiten. 
And so, within the period of this hour, 
I ripened feel — might almost say have aged! 
[Pauses.] 

The gamut broad of all sensations, from 

The topmost pitch of rapture, down to pain's 

Most melancholic depth, within the space 

Of this brief hour have I traversed swift ; — 

And heavier far it weighs than years have weighed to me. 

Be it as you say. I much have learned. I've seen 

The world. Of it a vague sense now I taste. 

As all creation in the sunshine basks, 

As in the bonny face of Nature kind 

The smallest moth in harmless play cavorts, 

Thus did I think of happiness. I took 

It for a right, a universal one for all. 

I see, I erred. Quite otherwise as with 

Kind Nature, that with even hand herself 

To all gives up, man's hate of man has forged 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



83 



The heavy burden of a troubled life 

As this world's law. I see it, happiness — 

That may not be. Though late, yet all the harsher 

The lesson conies to me. My share I will 

Not shirk in the hard fate decreed for all 

The mortals. I will not at the expense 

Of your strength my bosom's joy to reach, 

Or purchase it with mis'ry and despair 

To you. Be it, Ulrich, as you said. But see! 

I still am young; I can thus suddenly 

Not bid adieu to all the hopes of life; 

Not yet, as you, have I been hammered firm 

In this severe school of abnegation. 

My soul to hope still stretches out its hands, 

It still strains upwards to the light of life. 

The hope, Oh, Ulrich, leave to me, Oh, rob 

Me not o£ it — when you from this feud are 

Returned — 

Ulrich, A greater feud will then be on. 

Marie. [Knowingly.] 

I know it now. — But see, also that feud 

An end must have. The dreams of life, the sad 

As well as pleasant, all do sometimes end; 

There's naught but has its end. As now I learn, 

E'en happiness does end; and why not also 

Unhappiness? Why should, of all things, that 

Alone equipped be with the atrocious 

Privilege of eternity? When, finally, 

From that feud you return, then, Ulrich — 
Ulrich. [ Passionately.'] Then, 

When of that fray the tumult shall have ceased, 

Life's urging aim been reached, then may I press 

You to my breast, to god-like bliss exalted. 

Alone I would the world have drained, its cup 

Of bliss, as well as that of sorrow! 

A whole world in the compass of one man, 

I would the full fate of mankind in me unite ! 

But yet, I fear. Envious is the hidden, fateful Power ; 

He grants not man upon his own head godly crowns to shower ! 
[Departs precipitately.] 
Marie. [Long looking after him.] 

Oh, Heaven, him protect! — In all thy wide domains, 

No jewel, like to him, thy starry vault contains ! 



84 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Scene VII. — A knight's reception room in the Town Ball of Landau, 
The room is ornamented with flags and shields. In the rear, a dais, 
on either side of which closely crowded rotas of Knights are group- 
ed, and fill the space up to the foreground. Conspicuous among 
them is Count William von Furstenberg, Philip von Dalberg, 
Philip von Rudesheim, Henry von Dahn, Henry von Schwarz- 
enberg, William von Waldeck, Hilchen Lorch, von Benningen, 
von Falkenstein, Wolf von Turkheim, and others. Between 
the two rows, Sickingen. 

Franz. It's this, ye noble and free men, that I 

With faithful and a truthful heart and mind 

Have long been wishing on your hearts to lay. 

These are the means to meet th' emergency. 

Through this strong compact, the united strength 

Of priests and Princes will be broken up, 

The arbitrary rule, whose shackles press 

Upon all stations, finally abolished. 

Above all others, you the free men are 

Of Germany! — Above all others, you — 

Unless to cringing flunkeys to descend 

You're willing — recking not what dangers threat, 

Must lead the way to conquer for the land 

Its old, now trampled-on franchise! — 

E'en danger flees if we are joined in one. 

Now, then, will you, as I have just announced, 

The compact make — 
Dahn. We will! 

Dalb. We all of us! 

All. The compact! Compact! 

Rud. It has been long signed in our hearts; our lips 

Alone now need the binding oath to take. 
Franz. Good! (Sith you will it, let its first clause be — 

We henceforth shall no law obey that is 

Not grounded in strict right, and of the land's 

Acknowledged freedom flieth in the face. 
Schw. A traitor to us all let treated be 

Whoever hold a difFrent view from that. 
Franz. War shall be jointly waged by all of us 

'Gainst him who dares our statutes to oppose. 
All. So shall it be! We all of us say so! 
Franz. When any member of our federation is 

By whomsoever warred against, we all 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



85 



Are in that feud concerned — with all our pow'r, 

Our property and kin to the last drop 

Of blood. We all for each, and each for all 

Stand pledged, and common is our joy or woe. 
Turk. That be the law! Our oaths we'll take to that. 
All. We all for each, and each of us for all! 

A perjurer, shall from the roll of men 

He blotted be, who keeps not that! 
Franz. So be it. 

A Bible bring that fealty we swear 

Unto the compact, and obedience glad 

To him we now our federation's head shall choose. 

The right our chief shall vested be withal, 

For war the federation's full force to 

Engage. In war and peace, his is the leadership. 
Dalb. So be't! We shall his call obey, glad and 

Observant of the duty freely assumed. 
All. It is the will of all, unanimous! 
Franz. [To whom a large Bible has been brought.] 

Well, then, your heads now bare, draw the sword, 

And after me repeat the oath, that I, 

Not with my lips, no, with my heart, shall now 

Pronounce! Ye German nobles, swear with me: — 

[He uncovers Ms head and places two fingers on the Bible. 
All the others uncover and draw their swords.] 

By that exalted Freedom, that alone 

In man's eyes worth and splendor lends to life; 

By that exalted Freedom, that from this 

Book fifteen hundred years ago leaped forth, 

And now still richer blessings has for us — 
All. [Rapturously raising their swords.] 

Swear we! 

Franz. By our love for country, by that star 

Of man — our honor — that, in shipwreck e'en, 

When as a wreck the hope of life would sink, 

Lights cheerily upon his eyes, and guides 

Them to Posterity's respect — 
All. [As above.] We sxoearl 

Franz. By the presentiments of the All-High— 

Revealed to us in Nature and our mind, 

The heart of man to great achievements urge, 

Life's anchor in the storms of life — 

By the warm blood of all the best, who ever 



86 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



For mankind's sake have suffered — 
All. [As above.'] Swear we all! 

Franz. Firm troth unto this pact, to our chief obedience, 

And cursed be the man who this oath breaks! 
All. [As above.'] 

Accused! Cursed! All have sworn! The gods 

Have heard, have witness been to our oath! 
[The knights mutually embrace.] 
Franz. Upon the pinions of our oaths, the land's 

Beloved Freedom takes a mighty flight ! 

Concluded is the pact. Now choose your chief. 
Dalb. No need of lengthy choice. But you alone — 

But you alone can our chieftain be. 
Schw. But you. 

Dahn and Falk. And you alone! There is none other! 

Rud. Since long the eye of all of us you've been, 
You are our arm, you are our shield, our sword! 
'Tis only you can be our federation's head! 

All. [Raising their swords.] 

Unanimous, Franciscus, you we choose 
For our head, and swear to follow you! 
Upon us call; you'll ready find us all. 

Franz. As you to me, to you I pledge my troth. 
So help me God, a true head will I be 
To you, a Ziska to all Germany. 
You soon will further hear from me. Meantime, 
Yourselves hold ready. Increase your armaments 
With wise and timely means. Above all things, 
I this enjoin to you: — Let none of us 
Himself in feuds with any town entangle! 
Too much have we in former, unripe days, 
On this score sinned. The times are changed, with them 
Their laws. The towns it is, whose mighty impulse 
To right and freedom clearly designates as 
Our allies in the mighty strife. The love 
For freedom that the townsmen and the artisans 
Impels, that lurks behind their walls, and moved 
Is by the brilliant Spirit of the Age, 
Makes them the staunchest piers of our structure. 
Them cultivate. The peasant spare! He's ready 
The papal yoke, that, heavier yet than on 
Ourselves, oppresses him, from off his back 
To shake. Not us; the Princess does he hate. 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



87i 



He gladly will with us join hands, if we 

Resort to justice in our dealings with 

His class. The peasant once before did take 

The lead from us against the Princes' tyranny. 

Remember poor Koontz! He was o'ercome; 

Yet few years later, we ourselves were forced 

Against Duke Ulrich, Wurtemberg's lord-autocrat, 

Who recked our rights as little as he did 

The toilers' of the soil, the lance to place 

In rest. If ever through the land the God 

Of War, man-killing, stalk, the realm in two 

Opposing camps up-breaking, then it will 

The peasant be, whose strong fist, timely freed, 

Will arbitrate the iron game, decide 

The final fate of our great realm! Consider that! 

— And now, my friends, come to my burg. My scribes 

An instrument will there submit for your 

Approving signature and seal, that I 

Have caused to be prepared, to the end 

In seeming-slight attire our federation's great 

Compact to veil, and the alert suspicions of 

The Princess lull, when wind they get of it. 

Not earlier than the ripest moment may 

Be known what here has founded been this day. 
Schw. Well, then, we go! Franciscus, hail to you! 

Hai] to our chieftain! Hail! 
AIL All hail to you, Franciscus! 

The fortune that before, will henceforth too 

Accompany thy colors! 

[Exeunt all, except Fursteriberg, Dalberg, Lorch and Rude* 
sheim, who group themselves near Franz.] 
Furs. [Hastily approaching Franz, ~\ 

Again I warn you, Franz, you make a grave 

Mistake to fail to summon all the nobles 

With their full forces before Treves. It would 

Be quite a large increase of men; besides, 

It will go hard to soon find them again 

In such a ready mood. — 
Franz. I tell you, no ! No good, but harm 'twould do 

Your counsel to adopt. Did I with all 

The members of our Landau gathering, 

With all the knighthood of the realm, on Treves 

Now march, I would myself the Princes' eyes 



88 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Unclose^ compelling them a common cause 

To see. That were too soon. It would more harm 

Do than the increased forces profit, which, 

Moreover, against Treves I do not need. 

No, Furstenberg, I wish you still th' affair 

A private feud of mine to look upon — 

Such feudSj as oft before, have headed been by me. 

'Tis measure rules the world — too much may do 

As much harm as too little. 
Furs. Well, as you please! I would not with your eyes, 

Expert in triumph, enter in debate, 
Franz. Now, Lorch, an errand that you'll gladly run. 

The herald call. He ready, waits outside. 
Lorch. Indeed, I'll gladly run it. Miles I'd leap, 

To quicker such an errand execute. {Exit, 
Dalb. But I will take my men along. 
Rud. And I! 

Franz. Nor you, nor he. Your wild impatience curb. 

The next years will enough work give you both. 
[Lorch enters with herald."] 

But Lorch shall go with me ; he, anyhow, 

Concerned was in this matter from the start. 
[To the herald.] 

Step forward, herald ; take this letter, ride 

Full speed with it to Treves; and there announce 

To the Right Reverend, the Prince and Lord 

Ricardus, Archbishop in Treves and of 

The Holy Roman Empire in Gaul; 

Archchancellor of Aries ; Elector ; and so forth — 

That I, Franciscus Sickingen, herewith 

Declare war to him, and mean his sworn 

Foe to remain. The rest he'll in the letter find. 

Tell him to hie him, for I'm close behind. [Exit herald. 
Furs. Complete was never yet a joy in life. 
Lorch. How mean you that? 

Furs. I grieve that I may not 

Be there the face to see that the Right Reverend 
Will make when he the news receives. 

Franz. You may 

Believe me, it will be no surprise to him. 

Scene VIII. — Balthasar; the former. 
Bait. [Enters travel-stained and in haste.] Sir! 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



From Strasburg, post-haste I have hither traveled. 
The news is Rumor with a thousand tongues 
Abroad proclaiming that you mean to lead 
'Gainst Treves the army that is there collecting. 
E'en women, children, too, about it talk; 
And vagabonds' and beggars' lungs across 
The land the flame of the alarming news 
_ Like bellows chase. 

Franz. This time, my Balthasar, 

Does Rumor tell the truth. I knew it well, 
Impossible it is to long concealed 
The purpose keep of such an armed force. 

Bait. Then, that the purpose was of this outfit? 
Your mind is made up finally ? Reflect — 

Franz. My friend, there's nothing left now to reflect! 
With slackened reins the herald hastes to Treves, 
The letter carrying that war proclaims. 

Bait. [Meditatively.'] 

In that case — then, there's nothing more to change. 
'Tis clear to me ! Long I've absent been 
From you, at Strasburg and elsewhere engaged 
In troops to gather. Had I with you been, 
I might quite diff'rent counsel have advanced 
To you — less wise, and yet, perhaps, much wiser. 
But that is gone. So let it be. But one 
Thing, Sir, I wish you promise me. 

Franz. And what? 

Bait. As now, from Strasburg I was speeding post, 
I rode first into camp, the army to 
Inspect. I there met Dietrich Spaeth, your kin. 
He said to me you meant in a few days 
'Gainst Treves the field to take. 

Franz. You disapprove. 

Bait. Not half the army, Sir, is yet assembled; 

The reinforcements that from Cleves the knight 
Of Renneberg, from Brunswick Minkwitz are 
To furnish you; those that from Luxemburg, 
The Netherlands, Westphalia and the district of 
Cologne are now for you recruiting — they 
All fail. Wait till they all together are ; 
Then with your whole force march on Treves. 
You know, on th' Elector's shoulders sits 
A wise and vig'rous, withal a stubborn head 5 



90 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



And strong is he in own and allied troops. 

Franz. And, therefore, should I give him time that both 
He gather at their best ? Speak, Balthasar, 
How large is now the army at my command 
Near Strasburg? 

Bait. Full five thousand horse, also 

Ten thousand foot, and then the tenders of 
Th' artillery. Besides, with their men rode in 
The Counts of Geroldseck, of Eberstein 
And Eitelfritz von Zollern — 

[To Furstenberg.'] Your men, sir, 

Are likewise there. 

Franz. That tallies with my officers' 

Report. Old man, you are a first-class head! 
A general you're not! The codex of 
All generals has swiftness as the first 
Of all the ten commandments. Swift I'll break, 
With rapid moves, into the prelate's lands; 
Take from him burgs and towns; as surplusage, 
And not required, will join me before Treves 
All further reinforcements. The lansquenet 
Fresh courage feels, and feels relieved if new 
Troops ever, to the lusty sound of trumpets, 
Are seen in camp to arrive. Or do you think 
I should from all the provinces the men 
To Strasburg drag, and then to Treves should tramp 
Then back? Would you a crab in Franz's flag 
Insert? I rather imitate the hounds, 
That on the game from all sides throw themselves. 
Of all the rendezvous, the lest I know 
Of is the enemy 9 s entrails! Up, then, 
Ye merry hunters ! High game now's your prize ! 
In freedom's bugle blow. It is the mort 
Of all the hated despots of the realm! 

All. To hunt! To hunt! The trackers at their post, 
The foe to quell with our victorious host ! 

[Curtain closes.'] 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



91 



ACT IV. 

Scene 1, — A hall in the castle of Palsgrave Ludwig, the Elector Pah 
atine, at Heidelberg. Enter the Elector's Secretary and a 
Knight of the Archbishop of Treves. Later the Elector himself. 

Sec. So closely pressed does your master feel? 

Speak on ; be not so chary of your words. 
Knt. So closely pressed that to death I rode 

Two horses, but a breath or two to gain 

On time. The town may any moment fall. 

Where is your master, and why do you not 

Lead me to him ? 
Sec. He soon will here be. 

Have patience, but, meanwhile, be kind enough 

To satisfy my keen curiosity. 

If such a goodly army had your lord, 

Why did he not go out to meet the knight, 

The town with his own breast thus shield, and thuB 

The dangers both avoid, of famine and 

Of treason ? 
Knt. Surely, master Secretary, 

Were you a general, you would without 

A doubt in open battle Franz defeat ! 

Who questions that? But common mortals as 

The rest of us, are not so bold. Where that 

Knights leads, each common soldier grows to a hero, 

And fights as if he crowns would win. But, lo, 

Here comes your noble Lord. Hail, Sir, to you! 

[Enters the Palsgrave, and the Knight bows low.} 
Lud. Are you the knight from Treves? 
Knt. Yes, Sir; I am, 

Whom to your Grace, in his great stress my Lord 

Has sent, you of the treaties to remind. 
Lud. How stands your master's case ? Speak on ! 
Knt. Your Grace, 

The flood to overflowing swells. The grim 

Knight holds our Treves in iron embrace fast, 

And presses her so savage to his heart, 

Her iron corsage cracks, crushed by his love's 

Intensity. While now I speak, the blood 

Of nobles flows, the walls under the blows 

Of cannons shake. None knows what the next hour brings! 
Lud. How could Franciscus, in so short a time, 



92 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Such inroads make? Upon your Lord's first notice, 

Agreeable to treaty, I sent to him 

A goodly troop of mounted men and foot, 

And equal reinforcements came to him 

From other friends. How comes it, at the head 

Of all his nobles, of his peasant-vassals, 

And strengthened with these aids, he failed a head 

To make against Franciscus in the field? 

Knt. Oh, ask not, Sir; there was no head to make! 
The terror of his name before him flew, 
A Gorgon, palsying resistance. Like 
A second Holofernes, magistrates 
And commons, maidens robed in white went out 
To meet him with the beat of drum and trumpet bray. 
Whate'er resistance, down his savage sword 
Did mow. St. Wendel, Grimberg, Bliescastel 
He took by storm, and, forthwith, waxing like 
A speeding conflagration, rolled on Treves. 
The God of War himself, had he stepped down 
From high, could not his fury have withstood! 
In his mailed hand would Treves now be, had not 
An accident, or wonder saved us. 

Lud. What's that? 

Knt. While, breaking into towns and burgs, 

Resistlessly Franciscus marched on Treves, 
Th' Elector into Eifel threw himself, 
His people to a levy in mass to call. 
This Franz perceived. Intending th' Archbishop's 
Retreat to intercept, of the Moselle 
The left bank with the bastard of Sombreff 
He occupies. The hot-head bastard, tho', 
Away being carried by the ardor of 
His zeal, his way to Eifel forces, hot 
Upon th' Elector's heels. With cleverly 
Disguised marches, he deceives the hound; 
Finds free the shore; and in two days runs in 
His town, ere Franz arrived before our gates. — 
Had Franz found Treves without her Lord, she would 
Have trembling fallen on his breast, and now, 
A fugitive upon the mountain, would 
Th' Elector be — afraid of every hunter's footfall. 

Lud. No accident, it was the will of God, 

That such misfortune turned from his head! 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



93 



But now, protected by the walls of Treves, 

That many a month a siege could brave, how can 

He fear so speedy a fall ? 
Knt. Oh, sir, how long 

Could the supplies for such a garrison 

Hold out in a besieged town? But 'tis 

Not that alone. Part of the townsmen — this 

Our master knows from intercepted letters — 

Is grumbling for Franciscus. E'en the better 

Ones hard grow to control, when day and night 

They're frequent called to take their posts of danger. 

As I was leaving, he was making ready 

The town with burning shot to assail; nor could 

It many storms with ease withstand. — But, Sir, 

I also good news have. I tidings bring 

From Philip, Hess's landgrave, visited 

By me in Darmstadt, on the self-same errand. 

The noble Prince's cheek glowed red with rage, 

When he his ally's stress heard of. Before 

The sixth sun in the sea has dipped, he swore 

His army forth to lead. An equal force 

From you he expects. The place you are to name 

Where both the forces are to meet, thence jointly 

To Treves' relief set forth. 
Lud. [Hesitating.'] Equip a force 

Upon so short a notice — have you thought 

Of that — it is impossible! Moreover — 
Knt. Oh, do not hesitate, your Grace! Think of 

The treaties! Mind that ev'ry hour may that 

Bring on that nevermore could altered be. 
Lud. I'll gladly do all that I can. I'll send 

Another company to aid you. 
Knt. Oh! 

And do you hasten that it timely may 

Arrive to join the feast of Treves' sad wake? 

[After a short pause — during which the Elector has walk* 
the room up and doum } steeped in thought — with a bittrr 
tone.'] 

With half-help nothing could be done; your whole 
Force, Sir, alone can stead. The Hessian emulate ! 
An army call around you; jointly march 
To Treves with Philip, else the town will fall 
In ruins. You soon could not, what now you can! 



94 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Lud. [Stopping still, and to himself in deep agitation.} 
'Gainst Franz an army shall I lead? — That were 
A fight for life and death! He never that 
Would pardon — nor I him, if e'er I go so far! 
Let Philip do so — and not me — if with 
His Luth'ran conscience he can reconcile the act! 
Me other duties bind. Franz ! Franz ! So far 
Shall I the years-long love, the troth forget 

That you and your house before my eyes 

The bloody specter rises of Schweickhardt, 
Your father, warning with his head — 

Ent. [Pressing.'] Decide, 
Sir! While we speak the leaden dice fall heavy, 
Cast by the God of War upon devoted Treves. 

Lud. [With positiveness.'] 

It can not be! You ask th' impossible. 

The Hessian will suffice. I'll reinforcements send, 

And — that is all that I am able to. 

Knt. It then is o'er, and great events will yet 
This year's sun look down upon. Inevitably. 
Is verified Franciscus' word. 
[Turns to go.~\ 

Lud. What word ? 

Knt. Within St. Wendel's walls the prime nobility 
Of Treves itself intrenched had. There were 
Bruno von Schmidtburg, Waldecker von Keimt, 
Otto von Ketting, and good many more — 
The pillars of th' archbishopric, pledged solemnly 
The place to hold, though they with it went down. 
In vain did twice the knight a storm essay; 
He's beaten back by their heroic stand. 
But hotter still, inflamed with furious rage, 
Franciscus rushes on, and, at the third 
Attack, like glass he breaks both wall and men. 
As, then, within th' Archbishop's burg he stood, 
Surrounded by his military chiefs, 
And the long train of captured nobles filed 
Before him, grief-bent casting down their eyes, 
The moment's bubbling arrogance forced to 
His lips his otherwise well-guarded heart. 
Ye Sirs ! he cried, Look happier at th 9 event ! 
A Prince you have, who, when it please him, has 
Of wealth an ampleness to ransom you; 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



95 



Yet when — which, as you see, is on the way — 
Decked with th' Electoral purple, himself then 
Franciscus steps into the Seven's ranks, 
And you his banner then will follow — then 
The change will profit only bring to you! 
Lud. [Greatly excited.'] 

Franciscus in the Seven's rank? What? He 
Said that? 

Knt. He did on my salvation, Sin- 

Aye ev'ry lansquenet in Franz's camp 

Swears loud his Lord will an Elector be — or morel 
Lud. Farewell, irresolution ! Banished is 

Regard for all my other sentiments ! 

Franciscus! Does your bold ambition vault 

So high as at th' Elect'ral purple aim? 

Th' Elect'ral hat upon a head so turbulent? 

My just suspicion rightly guided me. 

Was that the purpose of the Landau gath'ring? 

Oh, never, Franz! Now action is in time. 

To Philip quickly fly; tell him from me 

The treaties we concluded shall be observed ; 

Upon the spot my whole force shall I move; 

Shall send him word where to connect with me. 

He should remember ev'ry minute tells. 

Speed! Speed away! 

[To his private Secretary.] 

A fresh horse furnish him. 

Away, Sir Knight! Upon the storm's wings ride! 
Knt. [Bowing.] 

All hail to you, my Prince ! Such gladsome news 

Transforms me to an arrow. Place on that your trust! 
[Exit with the private secretary in great hurry.] 
Lud. The German Brutus people call you, Franz; 

It now will ascertained be whether 

You are that Brutus that victorious drove 

Off Tarquin, or the one that, vainly manned, 

Was in the end, his own life forced to take. 

[Exit precipitately.] 

Scene II. — Sickingen's camp before Treves. Counts Wilhelm von 

FURSTENBERG, ElTELFRITZ VON ZOLLERN and HaRTMUTH VON 

Kronberg enter. Later Frowin von Hutten. 
Zol. I tell you we shall storm the town this day 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



For the last hours, Franz has riding been, 
In semi-circle all along the walls. 
Furs. It would too early be a repetition. 
Zol. Perhaps it is to keep the priestly paunches 
In perfect exercise. It never is 
Too soon for me to start upon a storm. 
Kron. To him who battles for his God, the heart 
Is ne'er so light as when he ramparts scales. 
[Trumpets are heard from a distance.'] 
Furs. Hark ! Heard you that ? 

[The trumpets repeat the signal louder.] 

It sounds like war's salute, 
As if new squadrons marching came in camp. 
Zol. Lot Hither hastens towards us a knight. 
Kron. It is Frowin! 

[Frowin von Eutten enters.] 

We greet you, friend in camp! 
All. [Drawing near.] 

God's greeting to you, Frowin von Hutten! 
Frow. Thanks! Greeting to you. Sirs! 

[They shake hands.] 
Furs. You come at last! 

You soon had come too late; but yet in time. 
Frow. How mean you that? 

Furs. In sev'ral ways. Had not 

Sombreff his orders broke, you now had found 

Us in possession of the town. It was 

A stupid slip. 
Zol. That matters not. Howe'er 

The sweetheart bar the door, she still believes. 
Furs. I grant. But much blood had it saved us. 
Kron. The blood that in God's honor flows, the lap 

Of earth does fructify, and hallows our life. 
Zol. And how would Frowin, not have grieved, had he 

Too late arrived to dance ! 
Frow. Not earlier could 

I come. The company's equipment held 

Me long. But how stand things? I crave to know. 
Furs. Have you not yet Franciscus seen? 
Frow. I have 

I met him on the hill over against 

The town. His lancers' chiefs surrounded him. 

He listened in great haste to my report, 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



To you referring me for news from him* 

With him, behind, I left my cousin, and have hither hurried. 
Zol. In few words the report I'll make. We've had 

Two trial storms ; and, if not much deceived, 

You just in time are for the third attempt. 
Frow. The bishop holds out well ? 
Zol. A full-fledged Mars. 

Sticks in the priest. A pity of him! He swings 

The sword as if it were a holy-water sprinkler. 
Furs. And not less well does he the firebrand; 

He burns down cloisters just as a Hussite. 
Frow. Cloisters, the priest? 

Zol. You know the abbey of 

St. Maximin, the noble structure, that 

Upon an eminence, near this town rose? 

Not on th' archbishopric dependent, and 

Placed under the protection of the realm, 

It long had roused the bishop's envious longings. 
Frow. I know it well. A prime strategic spot, 

For siege artillery to be set up. 

Protected by its walls and courts, the town 

Could from its height be swept. 
Zol. Exactly so! 

Now, then, two days before our own arrival, by 

Sombreff allowed to slip through, th' Archbishop 

Reached Treves. The first thing that he does — behold 

How nicely Hate and Wisdom joined hands 

To suit the priest — is, mindless of the cry 

Raised by the monks, the abbey to tear down. 

'Twas plundered. My bald- crowns were left free to 

Remove to Treves. In war's accoutrement, 

The firebrand in his own hand, the priest 

In person led the work of demolition. 
Furs. One of his mounted men quite worshipful 

The torch took from his hand — Your Worship, saic 

The man, leave that to me, whom tetter, than 

To such a pious man, becomes the work of arson! 
[They laugh.] 
Zol. That happened so! And what the fire did 

Not burn the pick demolished. Just as with 

The vanguard we arrived, the priest withdrew. 

We only ruins found. 
Frow. By that I Richard recognize! 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Furs. You've heard from us. Tis now your turn for news, 

How does it stand with Albrecht? Let us know! 

Will he with open forces Franz support? 
Frow. Oh, quite impossible, just now! What secretly 

He can, that will he gladly do, and will 

Continue doing; openly, however — 

For that it is too early. I myself, 

The racking doubts beholding that his mind 

Assailed, stepped up to him and said — Sir, I 

Return to you the seal I hold; I have 

In all Franciscus 9 feuds participated, 

And mean to do so now again, but not 

As your Grandmaster and your Chamberlain.— 

With his large eyes he looked me kindly in 

The face and said — Frowin, you are quite right; 

You know, I open keep your place, both at 

My court and heart! 
Furs. Does Franz know that? 'Twill grieve him sore! 

Frow. It did not so. We need him not, said he 

With calm indifference. 
Zol. And he is right! 

I think so too. We do not stand in need of him. 
Frow. Then, with his shrewd smile said — Th* Elector of 

Mayence will banquet but not cook with us ! 

For all that yet his place Vll honor at the feast. 
Kron. [Stepping to the rearJ] 

There's Franz approaching. 
Zol. Yes, indeed, and weighty tidings 

It seems he brings. He is accompanied 

By all the captains of the army. , 

Scene III. — Franz with Ulrich von Hutten and captains of the 
army, among them Fritz Sombreff. The former. 

Franz. 1 greet you, dear Sirs ! 

All. Franciscus, hail to you! 

Franz. My noble Sirs, I come your views to take — 

Shall we, to-day, a third time try a storm ? 

[A single trumpet sounds without. All listen."] 

What was that? 
Furs. On my soul, it sounded like 

The signal for a parley. 
Zot* Surely, not 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



99 



The priest seeks to negotiate ? 
A Lansquenet. [Entering.] Sir, an 

Imperial herald lias arrived. He brings, 
Says he, a mandate from the Emperor. 
Franz. Then lead him hither! 

[Exit Lansquenet.'] 

Once more shall I hear 
The riddle scratch of th' old regime — but then, 
For the last time ! 

Scene IV. — Herald preceded by the lansquenet. The former. 

Her. Whom, here, do I greet as Franz von Sickingen ? 
Franz. You stand before him. 

Her. Franz von Sickingen 

In th' Emperor's and Reichstag's name, I have 

A double mandate to announce — to you, 

As well as to your army. 
Franz To the end 

That you may see the answer you'll receive 

Proceeds, not from my orders, but the breasts 

Themselves of these free men — 

[To the lansquenet.] The captains of 

My army call together, that each one 

Himself may hear what him concerns. 
Zol. We're now assembled. 
Her. Captains ! 

Franz Herald, hold! 

You presently shall have the floor. 

[Steps towards the group of captains standing opposite.'] 

Where is 

My Joerg von Augsburg? 
Augs. [Stepping forward.] Sir! 

Franz. Draw nearer, Joerg! 

[Whispers to him; Joerg nods; then louder to Joerg.] 
And when you're ready, let the trumpets blow; 
The martial music shall my signal be. 

[Joerg withdraws with rapid steps. Franz steps again to the 
center where he had stood before.] 
Now, Herald, speak! Your message now commence. 
Her. Ye Counts, ye Nobles, Knights and Captains, all 
Of th' army that encamped is before Treves! 
Thus speaks the Emp'ror Charles through me, this day: — 
Revolt, and riot and a breach of peace 



100 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Is this war that Franeiscus has involved 

You in ; against the realm's decrees ; against 

The Golden Bull and prescripts, issued by 

Imperial Majesty. Therefore commands 

The Emperor that forthwith to your homes 

You back shall march, and back into its scabbard 

Your wrath-inflamed swords return. Then will 

He extend to you both grace and pardon. But 

If not, the Reichstag's ban will fall on you — 

Not merely heavy punishment in limb 

And goods — no ! If still further Franz's flag 

You follow, then your heads will fall! — Thus swears 

The Emperor. 

[Commotion among the knights and captains.] 

Franz. You've heard the threat of Charles. 

Zol. We heard it, and to you shall faithful bide. 

All. We follow Franz. His banner we will follow. 

Zol. [To Herald.] 

Go back and say that in Franeiscus' camp 
Men and not milksops you have found. 

All Hail, Franz, to you! We'll follow you till death! 

Her. I now, Franeiscus, turn my face to you! 
The Emperor reminds you of his old 
Affection ; he reminds you of the grace 
That he has e'er extended unto you. 
You shall forthwith withdraw the army that 
Assails his nephew and this sacred place. 
If not, upon you too the ban will fall, 
And forfeiture of his Imperial grace. 
And if against th' Elector you have just 
Cause of complaint, the realm's courts shall forthwith- - 
Himself Charles vouches therefor — to you 
Full justice do. Thus runs my message. Weigh 
It well. I anxiously your answer wait. 

Franz. Go, herald, and unto your Lord announce:— 
Gone by is now the time for words! Upon 
The Gate of Time, with iron knuckles loud, 
And big with fate, the hour decisive strikes. 
This realm lies prostrate in convulsions. No 
Nice flourishes of law can now the strife allay, 
That shakes its frame! — Look yonder, herald! Do 
You see yon pile of muskets and of cartridges? 
From their throats such times as these their law 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



101 



Tempestuous draw. In my own camp stands raised 

The realm's high judgment seat. Myself I'll found 

A powerful new order, and will dare 

A deed to do- 
Ne'er yet by Roman Emperor attempted! 

[The herald turns to go; at that moment martial music 
sounds without."] 

Hold, herald, take your answer to the end! 

Hear you the bugles blow and trumpets bray ? 

They summon us — you, Sirs — to storm the walls! 

Th' arrival of the herald served, in lieu 

Of martial council, quick the time to wink away. 

Few hours more, and, herald, back to Charles 

You'll take the greeting that from Treves Franz sends to him, 
[Draws his sword.] 

And now, Sirs, to the storm! 
All. [Drawing their swords.] Aye to the storm! 
Franz. Let Luther and Franciscus be the cry; 

Myself will the first ladder place against the wall. 
&omb. [Stepping forward.] 

No, Sir! Allow that I the heavy debt 

Now pay that weighs upon my breast. Mine be 

The boon of the first ladder, Sir. Let me 

Atone this day for what I did amiss. 

If not j believe me, alive I'll not return. 
Franz. [Somberly.] 

I grant it, Sombreff. Many brothers' blood 

Lies heavy upon your life ; 'tis thine no more ; 

Go dash it 'gainst the walls of Treves. That which 

Both sides now lose is gain — to you and us. 

And now, Sirs, to the storm! The sun goes down 

In blood. Oh, may her morning rays find us in Treves! 
All. On, to the storm! On! Luther and Franciscus! 

[Ezeunt all.] 

Scene V. — Market-place in Treves. It is night. The town burns in 
several places. The scene is lighted by the distant conflagrations. 
The bells are ringing. From time to time, the roar of cannon 
and crush of balls is heard. Women flee wringing their hands, 
and dragging their children after them, or carrying them in their 
arms. 

1st Woman. Oh, heaven! Ruined am I! 

2nd Woman. [Rushing in with a child in her arms.] 



102 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Save yourselves! 
The en'my's forcing in the Koritz gate! 
3rd Woman. [Rushing in with a little girl and distractedly looking 
round.] 

Fritz! Fritz! Where are you, Fritz! Oh, Jesus, Maria! 

My child! My child! 

[Rushes back in the direction ivhence she came. From sev- 
eral sides crowds of townsmen enter tumultuously and 
grumbling, and armed with pikes, swords and battle-awes. ,] 
1st Town. We can hold out no longer. 

One half the town is burning. 
2nd Totvn. One hour more, 

The foe will take the Simeon church. Depend on that. 
3rd Town. The foe? What priestly cant is that you talk! 

Is, then, Franciscus your foe, or mine? 

His proclamation solemnly declares 

He none fights but the priest. No townsman shall 

In body suffer or in limb. 
4th Town. Indeed, it is the doings of the priest 

That we with blood and wealth are paying for. 
3rd Town. Meseems, a stupid trade we ply to fight. 

Against our interests, and to uphold 

The priest's oppression. 
Several Voices. Yes 'tis so! 'Tis true! 

Other Voices. No! No! No! 

4th Town. Silence! No dissensions here! 

This much is sure. What Franz's 'gainst Richard has 

Does not concern the town. Why, then, does not 

His Worship with his nobles go outside, 

And settle in the open field his feud 

With Franz? Why does he, instead, defend himself 

With our houses, that in flames go up? 

Make us the scape-goats of his private quarrel? 

Who of you is so priest-daft that he'd gladly, 

In the bald-crown's quarrel, house and home, and wife 

And child, and his own life to boot, fling in 

The flames? 
All. No! None! 

Several Voices. We'll to the Bishop go! 

Scene VI. — Enters the Elector-Archbishop Richard with Count 
Solms, followed by a guard of lansquenets. The Archbishop is in 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



103 



full armor, his bare sivord in his hand and helmet on head; over 
his armor the episcopal pallium. 

Arch. I tell you, Solms, beset am I with traitors; 

At my own table sit these men — 

[Notices the crowd of townsmen, and steps towards them, who 
at his approach, draw back timid and grumbling.'] 

What do you here ? Why not upon the walls ? 

Is this a time to rest, your wide mouths fetch 

Together ? Off, with you ! And quickly go ! 

[Hollow murmur from the crowd of townsmen.'] 
Several Voices. The town no longer can hold out! 
Arch. Who grumbles? 

4th Town. Worshipful Sir! Our property in vain 

Goes up in flames. We think, if with the knights 

Your worship would betake himself outside 

The gates, and there offer to give battle, 

That would preserve from total demolition 

Your Worship's faithful town. The victory 

Could surely not choose but fall upon 

Your sanctified arms. 
All. Yes, leave the town! 

Arch. Ye pack of traitors! Lashes shall you have, 

To take away your taste for mutiny. 

Scene VII. — At the moment tvhen the Archbishop rushes at the 
crowd of receding townsmen, a captain enters with a squad of 
soldiers dragging in a Sickingen lansquenet. The former. 

Capt. [To Archbishop.] 

Sir Archbishop! This lansquenet we took. 
With our slings we pulled him off the wall. 
He might disclose the en'my's plans and strength. 
Arch. [To the lansquenet.] 

You've heard what's wanted. If your life you love 
The information give. Step in my ranks. 
Lans. I rather die in Franz's grace, than live 

In Treves a priest's puppet. 
A Soldier. Then die, you dog! 

[Stabs the lansquenet. A pause.] 
Arch. Remove that corpse! 

[The captain and soldiers withdraw with the corpse of the 
lansquenet and the Archbishop proceeds addressing the 
townsmen.] 



104 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



To you I say : that corpse 
A warning be to you. A corpse I'll make 
Whome'er suspicious acts. Now, to the walls! 
3rd Town. [Whispering to the Jfth townsman.] 
Be careful; anger him not now — I'll tell 
You more. We'll in the end enforce our plan. 
Arch. At your gates, the best nobility 

Is freely shedding from its princely veins 

The ruddy stream of life, and you would save 

Your low, plebeian blood? Would spare your mean 

Existence when the fight is raging for 

The holy things of earth ? The pious monk 

Himself, in sword-craft inexpert, his hands, 

To prayer only used, puts to work, 

Himself, self-sacrificing, in the jaws 

Of death he throws, fights for his faith and God — 

And you will think but of your earthly goods? 

[Approaching from a distance is heard a choral song of 
monks singing the first strophe of a hymn.] 
Choeal. First Strophe. 
Spe mercedis et coronae 
Stetis martyr m agone 
Ad mortem obediens 
Morte Christum imitatm 
Fide firmus et firmatus 
Firmo greffu gradiens. 
Arch. [When the strophe ends, turning again to the townsmen.] 
Behold, the pious soldiers are approaching, 
Decided, cheerful, a second wall 
To raise around the town with their brave hearts. 

[The procession of monks enters and marches across the place 
carrying banners and other church insignia, and singing 
the second strophe of the choral.] 
Choral. Second Strophe. 
Furit furor militaris 
Ut vir sacer sacris aris 

Immoletur hostia 
Quern occidunt saevientes 
Introducunt nescient es 
Ad aeterna gaudia. 
[At the appearance of the procession, the Archbishop and all 
those present fall upon their knees; singing the second 
strophe of the choral, the procession passes slowly over the 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



105 



place, halting noiv and then. After the procession has 
passed, the Archbishop and all the others rise.'] 
A rch. [Stretching out his arms in benediction.] 

Rise, strengthened by the blessing from on high! 

The Lord of Hosts himself fights on our side, 

And parries from your head the en'my's sword; 

The Holy Virgin marches on before, 

She looks at you with her celestial eyes. 

Blessed who this day sheds his blood! Such death, 

Like our Lord's own blood, the sinner's sins 

And errors wipes away. The Gates of Glory 

The paradise of joy, are opened wide to him 

The angels meet him singing songs of praise, 

And lead him to the right hand of God's throne, 

Illumined by th' eternal splendor of His light! 

Up, then, and to the walls! I'll lead you on. 

For battle cry, invoke the Holy Virgin! 
All. On to the walls! Treves and the Holy Virgin! 

Scene VIII. — The camp before Treves.. Morning is slowly dawning. 
Lansquenets enter carrying the deadly toounded Sombreff; later 
Ulrich von Hutten. 

Somb. Lay me down here. 'Tis one where I shall die. 

1st Lans. 'Twill not be quite so bad. Sir Knight ; I'll bring you help. 

Somb. I am past hope. Return and fight your best. 

[Ulrich enters with armed men.] 
2nd Lans. Who comes ! The pass-word — 

Ulrich. Luther and Franciscus! 

Somb. [Painfully raising himself on his elbow.] 

You, Hutten, here? 
Ulrich. Fritz Sombreff! Wounded sore? 

Somb. To death! 

Ulrich. Poor friend! Your promise well you've kept! 

Somb. How stands the fight ? Oh, let me know ! 

Ulrich. Still undecided 

The scales are trembling! Hither from 

The Mosel gate I come, where we the foe's 

Terrific sally bloodily repelled. 

Before his men th' Archbishop himself fought ; 

At him dashed Franz, whose lightning sword, the priest 

Pursuing, and whom Mars snatched off, mowed down 

Relentlessly the thick-set ranks of the 

Resisting foe! But, now, farewell! I hasten 



106 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Towards the Simeon gate, where Franz, the town 

There closely pressing, has upon his hands 

The en'my's heaviest force. Farewell, and do 

Not take it ill if now I leave you alone, 

Obedient to war's barbarous behest. 
Bomb. Oh, but one moment more, with a few words 

Be pleased to soothe my life's last breath! How stood 

Thinks at the Koritz gate ? A rumor flew 

Across the ranks that it had taken been! 
Ulrich. There, Death's own image, black von Zollern, 

The club swings that in his hands fully out-does 

The scythes of two of th' en'my's most deadly reapers. 

As he his men against the wall was leading, 

Upon th' assailants' heads fell such a stream 

Of boiling oil and melted lead, that loud 

The men yelled, dropped the ladder, and fled back. 

Yet he, with not a call their flight rewarding, 

As if alone he meant to take the town, 

The heavy ladder lifts, and up its rungs 

With rapid strides he climbs. At such a sight, 

The men are seized with shame, that hotter burned 

Than melted fire ; they turn about and dash 

After their leader. Wounded in the right, 

In his left hand he takes the sword and fights 

On as before. The ladder breaks beneath 

His closely following men, that forward pressed 

To second him — but all the while I speak 

The minutes flee. — Hark ! Signals — Heard you that ? 
[A long drawn signal sounds from afarJ] 
Somb. They're sounding a retreat! The storm is stopped — 

Let with it end the remnant of this life. 
[Falls back and dies.] 

Scene IX. — Fra'nz and suite, later Furstenbueg, Zollern, Frowin, 

Augsburg and other captains and knights. 
Franz. The generals call hither! Rest we of 

The storm, that breathless all night long has raged. 

[Exit several men; he notices Ulrich.'] 
You, Ulrich, here! 

[Embraces him.~] I felt concerned for you, 
When from each other, driven by the wave 
Of rushing men, you tumbled were upon 
Their bloody arms. You see, the grim priest will 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Not cheaply part with his Elect'ral hat. 
[Enters the generals sent /or.] 

I greet you, Sirs ! A circle make around me. 

The morning's pale light breaks, and rest require 

The wholly exhausted troops, who, without let, 

Have eight long hours through pools of blood been w T ading, 

And 'gainst the town's walls dashed themselves. I, hence, 

Have torn you from your mowing labors, here 

To council take, whether forthwith, upon 

A short rest's respite, we the battle shall 

Resume, or shall defer till our cannons 

A wider path have broke. Ye captains and 

Ye nobles of this army, speak your minds 

As freely as becomes a chief to speak. 
Zol. [With his right hand in a sling, his sword in his left.] 

I am for storming! — 'Twere a shame if we 

This night should fail to rest and sleep in Treves 
Furs. Sir, softly! Anger carries you away. 

'Tis coolness that befits a gen'ral's council. 

The storm was ordered much too soon ; too firm — 

We've found it out — are still the stubborn walls; 

We vainly sacrifice our men; the town 

Can now no more escape our hands ; but yet 

The cannons' fiery pounding needed is 

To soften her, and in her heart the way 

To clear for our storm's successful issue. 
From. And so think I. The town is lost. But only if 

The way we break for our assault, obedient to 

The settled rules of siege. 
Zol. The sword breaks wayr 

To him that knows to wield it. 
Augs. Sirs, allow 

That now I venture in this council of 

The army's chiefs the word to take. You know 

Me, Sir! I fought the battles of the realm, 

With th' Emp'ror Max I camped in Welschland, 

I stood — 

Franz. We all know you, my sturdy Joerg, 

You are the army's chief of ordnance, and 
Since wars I've waged, none better do I know. 

Augs. Well, then, now listen — 

So long as we no breach into the walls 
Have shot, you vainly dash your army's head 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Against the bulwark. It is much too strong, 
Its garrison too large, and it is too 
Well generalled! Of these three, two we might 
O'ercome, not all the three combined. Impossible! 
And now, Sir knight, if my advice you'll take, 
I pledge myself, before eight days have run 
Their course, and simply by my ordnance now 
Upon but few points centering, to ope 
Two breaches in the town — the North gate and 
The West — Give then the order for the storm! 
The town will helpless at you mercy fall 
Into your warm victorious arms. 

A Lansquenet. My general ! 

This minute, while myself and others three 
Stood sentinel along the bastion, from 
Within the walls an arrow flew and fell 
At our feet. We found a note attached 
To th' arrow, and this inscription did it bear: — 
To the most puissant knight, Franeiscus. 

Franz. [To Joerg.~\ 

From th' arrow cut and read the note to us. 

Augs. [Reading.'] 

"Worshipful Sir Knight! It is a friend who writes to you, and if 
he is not your friend, he would be your enemy, which, may God 
stand by me, is like saying an enemy of himself and of every hon- 
orable Christian, and a friend of these thick-skinned, money - 
greedy, man-skinning priests, whom he loves as much as your 
bullets love them when, out of sympathy, your bullets walk into 
their bodies in front, and, out of antipathy, walk out again at 
their backs, a magnificent spectacle, that he will never forget it 
was you, may God reward you therefor, who to-day furnished 
him several times. If you take the town, and your Grace deigns 
him the favor, he requests that you may carry it out upon the 
bald-crowns whom you have sentenced to be hanged, and to exe- 
cute it upon those tvhom, perhaps, you mean to let go. Now, to 
the point. You have friends in the town, and people who are 
favorable. But it is still too early. You must curb your im- 
patience, and be nicely quiet for a while. Because the garrison is 
still too numerous, and the papists are still making too much of 
an outcry. But the burghers have not yet the necessary courage. 
But if you shoot down their houses eight days longer, you will 
bring it to a favorable issue. Therefore, have patience, Sir 
Knight, because every ball that falls in here carries away one of 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



109 



your enemies, and makes you one more friend. You will hear 

further from me, and I am negotiating about a little gate. When 

a week is over, you will become personally acquainted with me, 

and do not then forget my favor! 39 

[General laughter among all present.'] 

An eloquent epistle ! 
Zol. Quite an assiduous knave! 

Franz. You're all agreed to a postponement? 
AIL Yes, we are! 

Franz. Thus, with or without letter — this a ruse 

Of th' enemy may be — 'tis my view also. 

Return the army to its old positions ; 

With increased force the murd'rous cannonade 

We shall renew. 
Augs. Aye, Sir; but 'tis the third 

Time, now, I warn you that we powder lack. 

You promised sev'ral days ago th' arrival 

Of fresh kegs, ordered by you from Landstuhl. 

'Tis pressing, the supply can last but few days more. 
Franz. Joerg, worry not ! I know not how it happens 

The transport is so long in coming. But 

To-day it surely will arrive. Meantime, 

No powder spare! 

Scene X. — A lansquenet followed by two messengers; the former. 

Lans. Two messengers have, Sir, 

Just now arrived, with hurried news for you. 

First Mes. [Stepping forward.] 

Sir, blame me not if now I bring to you 
Unwelcome news. The knight of Renneberg, 
Who in Cleves and Julich men for you recruited, 
Has sent me here. An edict of the duke, 
That threatens loss of fief and life to him 
Who joins your forces, quickly checked the flood 
That poured into the knight's encampment. Dashed 
Against that dam, that broke their further increase, 
The raw recruits lost courage and dispersed. 

2nd Mess. The same thing I report to you from Limburg, 
Westphalia and the district of Cologne, 
In all of which, with equal threats, th' Archbishop 
Prevents th' escape of riders to your camp. 
[Indignation among the nobles. J 

Franz. [Scornfully. J 



110 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Behold how expeditiously and harmonious 

Are all at once these Princes, otherwise 

So wrangling and deliberative! Why, 

It borders on a miracle! I barely 

This good sword from its sheath have drawn, to pound 

Them into one, and — not since stands the realm 

I such a case recall! — lo, smilingly 

My wishes granting, there they come and hop 

To meet me! — Such a willingness is half 

The victory; deserves to be recorded. 

My thanks for your good tidings! 

[Exit messengers, and Franz turns to the captains and 
knights^] 

Who of you 

Needs sharers in fame and booty? Who 

So poorly holds himself as to believe 

He's not enough? 
All [Enthusiastically.] 

Not one! Franz,, thrice enough 

Are we so long your spirit guides our arms! 
Franz. My thanks! 
Frow. [Almost simultaneously,"] 

Who's that, with rapid steps approaching? 

His roaming eyes denotes he looks for someone. 
Horseman. [Enters in haste.] 

You are Franciscus! Sir, I recognize you! 

I'm one of Michael Minckwitzk' riders, who 

From Brunswick marched with a company 

Of horse and fifteen hundred foot, whom he 

For you recruited. Unexpectedly 

We're fall'n upon, with overpow'ring force, 

By Philip, Hesse's landgrave; scatters us 

Apart; arrests the knight Minckwitz himself; 

And takes our chest. — I rode my horse to death 

To bring you timely notice. 
Franz. [Aside to Joerg.] 

Badly seem 
The sentinels their duty to conceive, 
That they lead not these messengers aside 
Into my tent. It is not well that here, 
Before th' assembled captains of my army 
This chase of messengers of evil penetrates 
To me.— 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Ill 



[Exit Joerg and returns shortly; Franz proceeds addressing 
the horseman.] 
I doubt not your great haste. Had you but stood 
As firmly as you ran, you would have back 
To Darmstadt whimp'ring sent the baby Philip, 
Eors. The bringer of bad news must ever ready be 
To have his hearer's anger fall upon 
His head. And yet I must increase it still 
With still worse news: with forced marches hither 
Himself the landgrave Philip's hastening 
To Treves' relief. 

[Commotion among the nobles and captains,'] 
Franz, Ye, Sirs, victory! 

[To the horseman.] 
You are a cunning fellow, who the bad 
Beginning of his tale knows good again 
To make with its conclusion's golden words! 
A horse and better weapons furnish him. 

[To the nobles.] 
In vain I studiously was seeking how 
To entice th' Archbishop from the town. We now 
May trust, does Philip come, he could no more 
Contain himself within! To help the helper, 
The priest will venture in the open field. 
One blow will then destroy them both, provided 
Our swords are still the same, and opes the town 
To us. 

Frow. [Impetuously drawing his sword.] 

Hail, Franz, 'Gainst Philip lead us! Vict'ry 
Is by your banner us assured. 
AIL [With swords up.] Hail, Franz! 

Kurt. [Outside.] 

Keep me back from my master? Me, who these 
Four days have racing been with minutes swift 
To find him so much sooner? Lumb'ring scamp! 

[Enters dragging in two lansquenets who seek to keep him 
back, and whom he finally throws off ; he drops at Franz*8 
feet with all the signs of exhaustion.] 
Oh, dear master! — Finally I have you! 
Franz. How, Kurt ? Is't you ? What brings you here ? I left you 
At Landstuhl, charged with Balthasar the burg 
To keep. What do you here? Come, Kurt, speak up I 
Kurt. [Gasping for breath.] 



112 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Sir, right away — wait — can no more — I am 
No longer the old Kurt — 'tis now four days — 
I have become a grey hound — 
Franz. Bring a cup 

Of wine to brace him up. 
Kurt. A new lung, rather — 

I wish they'd fetch me — Sir — the old one, much 
I fear — I ran — to pieces — 

[A lansquenet fetches a goblet; Kurt seizes it with both 
hands and drains it at one gulp.'] 

Ah, e'en new lungs 

Reside in bumpers! 
Franz. Now! Will you now speak? 

Kurt. Yes, Sir — at Landstuhl, as you said, you left me, 

With Balthasar o'er me. He joined me to 

The convoy that the powder kegs conveyed 

To you. 

Franz. And what delayed the transport? Speak! 

Kurt. We had not gone a full day's march, when us, 

In peace — and without warning of a feud — 

The palsgrave fell upon, and all the kegs 

As booty took — 
Franz. [Enraged.] The palsgrave did you say? 

Thou liest, man! 
Kurt. I, lie, Sir ? Hear me further ! 

He threw us down ; made us his prisoners ; 

But that's not all, Sir ! At the head of a 

Strong army he is hast'ning hither 'gainst 

You. Three days more, and he'll be where now 

I stand. He dragged us bound behind him. But 

I managed to escape. I ran myself to death, 

To bring you timely warning. Wait you here — 

You'll then see whether 'tis a lie. 
Franz. [Who listened with utter indignation and with consterna- 
tion, to Ulrich.] 

That, that went to my heart! — Of all the princes, 

Him only did I love, to him alone 

My heart beat trustingly. In blood the bonds 

Of steel were tempered that united him 

To me. A rebel for his sake against 

Th' Imperial Majesty, and out of loyalty 

To him, my father braved the scaffold: him 

To shield, his noble head laid down upon 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



118 



The block. The loyalty, baptized in 

My father's blood, I sacredly preserved: — 

And thus the son of Schweickhardt he rewards; 

Rewards me thus! Of all things but for that 

Was I prepared! Him only as a foe 

I ne'er believed to see. — 

Now, shattered lie my plans ! With one fell blow 
Both human kindness and the ingenuity 
Of man are crushed by vile Princes' pride! 

{While Ulrich embraces him with deepest sympathy, he steps 
back into the ranks, where, since Kurt's report, murmurs 
and commotion had increased.'] 
Furs. Meseems the game puts on an ugly face. 

We're lost if here for them we longer wait. 
Frow. No more so than if we retreat : if we 

Retreat, th' Elector surely will pursue us. 
Zol. You may depend, that he will surely do. 
Frow. Pursued, surrounded by a triple army — 

How would you your retreat effect? What say you 
Zol. I? I say not a word! Escape I see 

As little as yourself. 
Franz. [Who has stood the while with Ms arms crossed, again steps 
forward.] 

Who says we're lost? 
Aye, what's lost? Are you men or worshippers 
At strumpet Fortune's shrine? Wilt woo her when 
She smiles, and tremble at her fickle frown? 
The strong man forces her, a slave unto 
His will, her willing smile to give again. 
Not at the end, we stand here at the start 
Of our power and our purposes. 
A triple army threatens us — aye, worse, 
The want of powder. Yes, we must decamp. 
I'll lead you through the mountain steeps, and bring 
You safe behind the foe. Woe to him, 
Who'd dare my retreat to bar ! To save 
His army is a general's first duty. 
Your minds you may make free; encroach not on 
Franciscus' cares and office. Once the foe 
The slip we've given, I'll disband the bulk 
Of th' army — 
Furs. What! Disband the army while 

Those three remain in arms against yourself? 



114 



FRANZ VON S1CKINGEN. 



Franz. How could I such an army winter in my burgs? 
Or should I quarter them upon my friends, 
And thus, before the struggle is begun, 
Consume their means? Besides, it does not press 
This year. Winter's breaking in. They'll ne'er 
At such a season, dare the Ebernburg 
To approach. Before, howe'er, the army I 
Disband, the pledge I'll take from all the captains 
That, with the first rays of the spring's warm sun, 
Equipped, and strengthened with new levies, all 
The squadrons they shall lead back in my camp. 

Furs. But what propose you with the palsgrave to — 

Franz. Twelve noble youths upon their swords' point shall 
To him from Sickingen the challenge bear — 
Renounce my further fealty to him. 

[To TJlricK] 
You, Ulrich, I will send to mighty Zurich, 
Whose brave confederates their help have long 
Been proffering to me, if ever needed. 
I need it now ! There, where you loved and honored 
Are, press the proffered help. Lead to my burgs 
Strong files of yon axe-wielding, brave reserves. 

[To the knights.'] 
With you I shall a day appoint at Schweinfurt; 
Assemble there with your kith and kin; 
The whole nobility I will convene 
To a conference. It is for you now true 
To prove that which at Landau you did swear. 
Our federation's members all must arm themselves; 
To arms I'll call the Nation's full knighthood! 

All. Rely on us, as on yourself you would! 

Franz. A trial only was this slight campaign. 
Next year we'll execute the final work! 
Exposed is now the hand of our foes. 
A clear line now parts enemy from friend. 
The vict'ry's ours, provided true to you 
Your former valor keeps. We now our full 
Strength will deploy, and did not so before. 
The winter for recruiting utilize — 
A signal unto all the new sun be. 
The first breath of returning spring shall both 
Of winter's ice and tyrants' chain emancipate 
Our country's soil. — The new year brings a Nation new. 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



115 



AIL The new year, hail! and hail your steady fortune! 

[The curtain closes.] 

ACT V. 

Scene I. — A vaulted and strongly constructed tower-chamber in the 
burg of Landstuhl, which is closely besieged by the confederated 
Princes — the Palsgrave Ludwig, the Landgrave Philip and the 
Archbishop Richard. Franz is in an arm-chair, in full armor 
but without helmet. A few steps behind him, Balthasar en- 
gaged in reading letters and indicting messages in cipher. At 
the opposite end of the chamber, the knight of Rtjdesheih at a 
table with a bumper of wine before him. Marie enters and 
leaves the chamber in the course of household duties. From 
time to time, the booming of cannon is heard. 

Bud. [Rising and violently laying down the bumper of wine that 
he had carried to his lips.] 
Abominable! E'en the wine no longer tastes! 
And justly so! When out the spark of manhood goes 
Fidelity, the country's wine, may well to gall 
Be turned, this craven generation's joys of life 
Embitter. 

Franz. Oh, Rudesheim! Slander not 

Our friends until their fault is manifest. 
Rud. How can it clearer be ? Is not our plight 

Sufficient proof ? The crashing of the foe's 

Besieging guns ? And this last hole, that ill 

Could long protect us from their murd'rous shot? 
Franz. You know, much earlier did the foe appear 

Than I myself expected him to see. 

Our friends have no suspicion of our plight. 
Rud. If th' enemy's hate could be beforehand, why 

Should not the zeal of our friends? Besides, 

Have you not letter upon letter plied, 

In cipher neatly framed by Balthasar? 
Balth. Not all the letters safely reach their destination, 

And quicker does the foe's suspicious eye 

A runner's cloak see through than he the foe's 

Besieging army could run through. 
Rud. Nonsense ! 

Since long has spring set in. Of their own 



116 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Accord they long ago should here have been. 
Franz. Indeed, from day to day have I relief 

Expected, both from them, and from the troops 

I ordered to recruit. 
Rud. 'Tis now a full 

Eight days you've nursed these hopes; but this is clear 

To me, no second week you'll have to wait : 

We may before that time be buried 'neath 

The ruins of this tower. Strong it is, 

But still, not at the Ebernburg are we, 

The indomitable fort! They there might long 

Have shot; nor could they there ever thus 

Have hemmed us in 

[A frightful crash is heard over the roof of the tower; all 
except Franz start up alarmed.'] 
Hark! Hark! 
[Anxiously inspecting the roof.] 

How long think you — 

Before these blocks of stone will roll upon 

Us down, and nine-pins play upon our heads? 
Franz. [Rising and walking through the chamber with his arms 
crossed, and muttering to himself.] 

'Tis true! In all my life I have not heard 

Such frightful cannonade! Not even in 

Th' imperial wars was anything like this. 
Rud. And heaven only knows whence they have dragged 

So many pieces of artillery. 
Franz. Within so short a time, so closely pressed 

To be in such a fortified place — 

I never would have thought it! Much it looks, 

Besides, as if some spirit in each ball 

Did lodge — as though they accurately knew 

Each secret of the burg. Its weakest spots 

The cannons ever hit. This is remarkable! 
[Stops meditatively.] 
Balth. The devil fights for his own ministers. 
Rud. [Clenching his fist.] 

With rage I boil ! To think we here must lie 

A target for their shot, while in the field 

We could ourselves the crew knock in a heap ! 
Franz. [Resumes his seat.] 

Be still ! And should the tower fall, we then 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN, 



Shall in the rock-groove safety find. 

Rud. So that 

Like an entrapped toad they drag you from 
The heap of stone? Well may you free of blame 
Our friends pronounce! The largest share yourself 
Do bear. Upon yourself more hot alights 
The rage that boils within my veins. 

Franz. On me? 

Rud. You understand me well! Is it myself 
I care for? Upon your freedom, on 
Your safety all depended. With you stands 
Or falls our federation. Yours the blame 
For our distress! I speak not now of your 
Untimely magnanimity when all 
The friends, that now have left you in the lurch, 
With th' army you disbanded. No! But here, 
In Landstuhl, lock yourself instead of in 
Your strongest fort, the Ebernburg — — 

Franz. [Almost angrily.'] You know, 

The enemy surprised me here — 

Rud. Surprised? 
With still a half day in which to move, before 
The en'my's cavalry appeared upon 
The forest's skirts, three hundred men 
Did you dismiss, lest space and rations failed 
Ourselves. Oh, how I begged you to withdraw 
With them! In fullest safety could you then 
Have gone — but you 

Franz. [With an effort.] Disgraceful had it been 
From such a strong place in the en'my's face 
To flee, without the firing of a shot! 
How would it have become my place, intent 
Upon myself alone, the nobles and 
My trusty men, who for protection threw 
Themselves into this burg, here helpless to 
Forsake ! 

Rud. So said you then, and that it is 

That I can never pardon you! What of 
Such men as them and me! The only prize 
Are you. Our cause would brilliantly have stood 
Had you but ridden off — the burg I could 
Have held as well as you. 



118 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Franz. The presence of 

The general gives courage to his men, 

Their veins warms with determination's fire. 
Rud. E'en so! The burg I would have held, have held 

As long as e'er a stone remained upon 

Another. And e'en if they took it, what 

Was lost? With half an army had they paid 

For but a dreary heap of ruins, while 

At Ebernburg you would be laughing in 

Their face. They would not have to such a pass 

Brought us. If free, you could yourself the friends 

Have spurred. That would the laggards have inspired. 

Their forces heading, now upon his rear, 

You could the enemy assail. 
Franz. It is 

The sluggish steed that needs the rider's spur. 

What stronger spur is there than the pledged word? 
Rud. You see yourself how standeth that. What all 

Was promised you! As far as from Bohemia 

Were men to come. Not one has come! When then 

Imploringly I urged you thither march, 

Your answer was you would, when proper time 

Had come. The time has come! Now show me how, 

Unless you wings can take, the feat you could 

Accomplish. 

Marie. [Entering with a goblet of wine which she presents to 
Rudesheim.1 

Now, Sir Knight, I other wine 

Have here. It is of our best. It will 

Taste surely good, and soften your displeasure. 

Please take, and drink, and vex my father not 

With these reproaches. 
Rud. Charming maid! Your voice 

Much better than the wine drives off whate'er 

Displeasure I might feel. An angel are you! 

I think to you alone we owe that still 

The burg refuses o'er our heads to tumble down. 

It is a touching sight how, not a word 

Complaining, mild and smiling, you support 

The trials of the siege. 
Franz. \Nodding his daughter to come to him; she leans over and 

cuddles close to her father.'] 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



119 



Marie! [Fondling her.] 
Philip! 

See, now, how wrong you are! You praise bestow 

On her that she remained; yet did she not 

Sin grievously her father to deceive? 

The day that I the mounted troops sent off, 

With them I ordered her to part. But she, 

Conspiring with her maid, seemed leave to take, 

While one of her attendants, in her velvets, 

Herself impersonated. I could not 

Descend below. My time was too engaged. 

She kept herself concealed; and when the foe 

Appeared — [Fondling her.] 

The impostress turned up in the evening. 

Rud. And right she was. Her place is next to you 

[A crash, produced by the enemy's cannon, heavier than 
before, and followed by the rush of tumbling masonry , 
starts all except Franz, who looks around from his 
seat.] 

Franz. A hard knock that one was. It cost a good 
Piece of the wall. Go, Philip, see what damage 
That shot has done. The rip repair quick. 

Rud. [Putting on his helmet.] I shall do so! 

[Exit Rudesheim in haste; also Marie, silently.] 

Scene II. — Franz; Balthasar leans bach from his desk. A short 
pause. Franz directs upon him a long and inquiring look, 
Balthasar looks blankly before him. 

Franz. Now, Balthasar? 
Balth. Sir ? 

Franz. Have not you also 

Some cross reproach in readiness? Your cold, 

Contracted mien denotes it clearly. 

Speak up — the army I disbanded, have 

Before the foe not wished to flee, and have, 

Who knows, what other things done wrong! Speak openly! 

Cut up among yourselves the drooping lion's skin — 

Of all of these, what do you blame me on? 
Balth. [Solemnly.] 

I? Nothing! 
Franz. [Rises and walks the chamber.] 

Then, indeed, must matters badly, 



120 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Aye, very badly stand with me, if now 
Not even a reproach has Balthasar for me! 
Balth. You err! To youngish fools I leave the task 
To carp at things that but the sequence are 
Of the once treaded path. The path is what 
Concerns us, not the sep'rate steps, that one 
By one the path compels, and, closely linked, 
Contrives. 

Franz. What are you driving at? 

Balth. Sir, have 

You any faith in death's presentiments? 

Franz. Old man, what is upon your mind? 

Balth. That man 

His hour of death fore-feels, believe I not. 
But this he does — his deadly enemy, 
There is no creature but fore-feels instinctively — 
It seems a law to be that runs through Nature, 
Itself in e'en the animals asserting. 
The bird, its fate fore-feeling, trembles shy 
In terror at the rattlesnake's regard; 
Before the hot simoon is nigh, with eyes 
Shut, down upon the earth the camel throws 
Himself affrighted. Still more powerful 
This instinct active is in man. Unto 
Your friend you must yourself reveal, and oft 
In vain the friendly assurance give. Alone 
The enemy, howe'er yourself you may 
Disguise, fore-feels you at once — his gauge is true. 
His hatred far more rightly takes your measure 
Than does the mass; more rightly than your friend. 
Life's instinct quickly scents the danger that 
Your being threatens his withal. Strong men 
Are by the enemy detected long 
Before their friends draw hopefully to them. 
Thus Sulla of old did long before foretell 
The then still stripling Caesar would the old 
Nobility of Rome cast down, when still 
No Marius friend in him the queller saw 
Of th' ancient optimates. 

Franz. What has all that 

With our present case to do? 

Balth. What has 

It with our present case to do? You knew 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



It not; and for you knew it not you now 

So dearly pay! The Princes did you think 

With the campaign 'gainst Treves to hoodwink? They, 

You thought, would take it for a mere feud, 

A simple issue 'tween yourself and Richard! 

The Princes you did not deceive. By an 

Unerring instinct led, in you their hate 

The deadly en'my of their station saw. 

In all the courts of Germany the word 

Resounded loud: Not since there Princes were 

Did ever such a common danger rise? 

Your friends alone you carefully deceived — 

A Nation in this feud concerned was — 

Hence stirs she not: The towns, the peasants — all 

Leave you with your own strength the private feud 

To end, while the initial failure drives 

The nobles timid from the open — 
[Raising his voice.] 

Yourself the arteries of your strength 

Have bound; the heart's own life blood back you drove 

That would have flowed to you — 
Franz. Oh, Balthasar! 

Desist; oppress me not with your reproach. 

It could not otherwise be done — 'twas still 

Too soon to openly declare myself. 

The town of Treves, strategic place, of all 

I needed first. The plan was good, and well 

Was ev'ry calculation made. W T ho can 

Control the whim of accident — who may 

Convert it cruelly into a charge? 
Balth. Oh, call not accident what is effect! 

Because on accident we can not count, 

'Tis folly on its slipp'ry head to place 

The fate of time. Was it too early still? 

You should then quietly have known to wait. 

But once you sallied forth, your part had been 

To openly 'gainst Charles the banner raise; 

The reformation of the Church and realm 

With large strokes, plainly legible upon 

Your banner to inscribe; or better yet, 

By virtue of the title and the right, 

Boldly as Emperor yourself proclaim — 



122 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Unchain the Nation's flood, that painfully 

Its banks restrain. That had been wiser than 

To play with friends at blind-man's buff — a game 

That blinded not a single man among your foes. 

— Well calculated, said you? Aye! It was 

That very thing! You're thrown down by your cleverness. 

The greater deed you could have carried out; 

The smaller you can not! 

Oh, not the first are you, and will not be 

The last his neck to break at the attempt 

In great things cleverness to try. Disguise 

Will never stead upon the stage of history, 

Where, in the masses' turmoil, man is known 

But by his armor and device. Therefore, 

From head to foot yourself wrap bold 

Within the folds of your true colors. Then 

You draw in the gigantic struggle on 

The full resources of your actual aim, 

And stand or fall in fullest exercise 

Of all your powers. Not your fall is what 

Most shocks, but that you fall in fullest bloom 

Of your unconquered, unavailfcd strength. 

— 'Tis that that least a hero can endure. 
Franz. [Who has been pacing the chamber with increasing agita- 
tion, stops suddenly.'] 

So, then, you take me really for lost? 
Balth. Sir, did I so, such language never would 

I hold to you, and gall your great soul with 

Reproach's sting! No! Nothing yet is lost, 

That boldness could not doubly win again. 

How, Sir, is this mouse-hole the limit of 

Franciscus' power ? Sir, in you } your name 

The confidence that in the people's heart 

In warm pulsation throbs for you — in that 

Your power lies. The thick walls of this burg 

But keep away the Nation and your own 

Strength from yourself. Ill bears the land the load 

Of the contemned temporal regime, 

Or clergy's tyranny; ere long it may 

Attempt the yoke to throw, aye, e'en without 

Your aid! — 

[Confidentially approaching Franz and in a lower tone.] 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



Sir, when in Alsace and the upper lands 

I was for you recruiting, many an odd 

Thing did I learn, and many a secret spied. 

It seethes among the peasants! Something brews! 

It spreads afar through all the provinces. 

As under scanty coatings lies concealed 

The pregnant, devastating lap of the 

Volcano, now a conflagration gleams 

Below the surface — 

[With warmth.'] Speak the right word, and 

The fires, that now flicker in the dark, 

Will outward leap in lambent tongues of flame. 

The country call, and hundred thousand peasants 

Will rise — a ready army at your will. 

Pronounce the word, and utt'ring it bestow 

All Germany upon yourself for army, 

Yourself upon all Germany for leader! 
Franz, [Greatly moved and raising his hands to heaven."] 

I will — that is 

[Dropping his arms.] 

I wish I could ! but, oh ! 

You dream! Do you forget that in this burg 

An army holds me prisoner? 
Balth. [Approaching Franz with a scrutinizing look.] 

Therefore, 

The problem is the means to find for free 

Egress. Suppose you purchased that by the 

Surrender of this burg? 
Franz. Surrender it? — 

And even if I willed can you believe 

That they would enter into such a pact? 

Of war the custom immemorial is, 

Before the investment of a burg, to summon its 

Surrender, granting the withdrawal of 

Its garrison, provided that, without 

The firing of a shot, the place it yield. 
Balth. I know. 

Franz. And also know that when they invested me — 

Although they safely could have done so, free 
From fear of acceptance, as they knew 
Themselves — to me no summons issued they. 
They acted thus, when strong still was the burg, 



124 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



When more than once I drove them back with sallies, 

Broke through their trenches, and was buoyed up with 

The daily expectation of relief. 

And now, now when I'm locked in tight, the burg 

Almost demolished — now you think they'd grant us that? 

Oh, that they'll never do. It is myself, 

And not the burg, they are striving to secure. 

Balth. Nor did I mean it so. Now listen, Sir! 

In first rate trim, withal well-manned and officered, 
Your other burgs the en'my still defy. 
The Drachenfels, the Hohenburg, 'bove all, 
The Ebernburg, gives them concern. They will 
Approach them but with dread. E'en in 
Your absence could the en'my never hope, 
If ever they succeed, without a long 
Protracted siege to force them. Besides — 
They know not yet how closely pinched we here 
Are now. Indeed, they otherwise would not 
Accept the proposition. Now, howe'er — 
How would it be if to their harm you could 
Succeed to bribe them? All your burgs surrender, 
In payment for your safe withdrawal hence. 

Franz. [With a start.'] 

You rave! The Ebernburg! The bulwark of 
My power! — Shall 

Balth. [With pathos.] The Nation languishes 

Outside their walls; she's waiting for your orders. 

Franz. [Impatiently stamping on the floor.] 

Where are the men! Where are they all, I pray — 
Aremberg, Horn, Furstenberg! The Swiss, 
The men of Strasburg, those of Landau, where! 
Where are they now, the men who once so much, 
So much did promise — yet so little kept? 

Balth. [Deeply moved.] 

And if they came they now would come too late! 
Sir, grieve not thus. An easier struggle than 
The present conquers back whate'er you lost. 
What cares he, who would a whole world win, 
Some clods of land to cast away! But, Sir, 
Reflect, 'bove all the time cries haste. Should now 
Some accident reveal to them our stress, 
They'll never do it! 



FRANZ VON SICKINGEN. 



125 



Franz. [After a violent internal struggle.] 

Call the herald in! 

[Exit Balthasar, and presently returns with herald.'] 

Herald! To th J enemy I send you forth. 

I order you this charge to hurl at them: — 

On me you have the laws of war infringed; 

Ye have the burg not summoned. Now do I 

My right demand, the right you failid in. 

In guarantee of safe withdrawal by 

All living, now the burg I leave to them. 
[Herald bows.~\ 
Balth. And is that all you have to say to them? 
Franz. Oh, Balthasar! I can not — can no further go! 

I can myself not offer what with shame, 

Repugnance only I could grant. If they 

Bade such condition — then, perhaps — but I — 

Myself — no, never! Never, Balthasar! 
Balth. I fully understand you, Sir! Myself 

The herald will accompany. I will 

The en'my seek, will lead his tongue that it 

The prearranged place may reach, and down 

Lay the conditions that we're ready to 

Accept. 
Franz. [Embracing him.] 

Upon your tongue I leave my honor. 
Balth. Rely on me. 

[They embrace again; exit Balthasar with the herald 
through one door, Franz through another. 

Scene III. — A tap-room in an isolated inn of the Upper Rhine. It 
is late in the evening. The room is dark. A strong rap is heard 
at the door. 

Inn-keeper. [From a side room.] 
Yes! Yes! 

[The rapping continues.] 
I'm coming. 

[The rapping redoubles; inn-keeper enters with a lantern.] 
Patience! Not so hard; 
Who is it raps so heathenishly there? 

[Reaches the door and opens.] 
Well ! Well ! ! For one who through such hellish storm 
On foot foots it, you make a devilish noise! 



126 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



Jos. Fritz. [Disguised with a large beard, and a big patch across 
his face.] 

Hew! [Makes a secret sign to the inn-keeper.'] 
Innk. What? One of our brotherhood? Oh, then 
Excuse me! 

{Jos Fritz steps forward and removes his false beard and 
plaster; his garb is a somewhat fantastical imitation 
of a knight's costume; around his waist he carries a 
belt in which several daggers and a sword are stuck. 
The inn-keeper, who carefully re-closed the door, re- 
turns to the new arrival.] 

What! Is't you, Jos Fritz? Welcome, 
Most heartily! And have you just arrived? 
Jos. [His speech is rapid and jerky.] 
Arrived last night in this vicinity. 
To-day I made the rounds of the surrounding farms. 
Innk. Where come you from? Where were you? Have ye news 
For me? 

Jos. Hoho! You fall upon me like 

A gate-clerk, and no time to answer do 
You give me with your string of questions. Long 
I've been away. Have traveled far. And now 
I bring you weighty tidings. Not a few. 
The thing progresses well. Where'er I came 
In all the German districts, ready is 
The peasant for the plow. Th' extortions of 
The priests, th' oppression of the Lords have reached 
Their limit. Far and wide is ev'ry thing 
In first-class readiness. But little now 
We need and — th' hour strikes. The first event, 
That fitting seems, will be the signal for 
The start. — But this is not the time to chat. 
You soon will hear more. I hither have 
Convened the brothers of the commons. I 
Expect them any moment. Hurry up. 
Bring here some lights — 

[A rap is heard at the door.] 

Hoho! They're rapping now. 
Shall myself open, and the pass-word take. 
Meanwhile attend to your affairs, but place 
The lights far back, that they may leave the door 
As dark as possible, 



FRAttZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



127 



[The inn-keeper steps into an adjoining room whence he 
fetches lights, chairs and bumpers, which he arranges 
at and on a long table at one corner of the room; Jos 
Fritz goes to the door and partly opens it.} 
The pass-word! Speak! What kind of fellow's that? 
1st Peasant. We can not heal of priests and noblemen. 
Jos. That's right. Draw near. 

[Shuts the door; to the peasant, who has proceeded to take 
off his mantle and slouch hat that had hidden his face.] 
Oh, Hans of the Mats! 

[Gives him his hand."] 
1st P. Am I the first? 

Jos. The first. But you'll not have 

To wait a long time. Easy make yourself. 

[A rap heard at the door.~\ 
Hoho! Hallo! I told you so. They come. 

[Hastens to the door to open it as before.] 
The pass-word! Speak! What kind of fellow's that? 
2nd P. We can not heal of priests and noblemen. 
Jos. Good! Step in! 

Innk. [Who has in the meantime arranged the chairs and bumpers.] 
So, now I am ready, and can 

Relieve you. 

[Stations himself at the door while Jos Fritz steps forward 
again; in rapid succession enter several peasants whom 
the inn-keeper admits after a whispered exchange of 
words; some of the peasants sit down at the table, others 
surround Jos Fritz and converse in whispers.] 
2nd P. Then you think we may upon 

The towns depend? 
Jos. Hm! As I told you, Jacklein, 

The lower townsfolk everywhere are found 
Inclined to us; in many places are 
The artisans our friends. 'Tis otherwise 
Among the councilmen and retainers. If 
Alone we in the movement stand, they ne'er 
Will join the peasant. But in case of need, 
They'll be compelled. 
2nd. P. I think we're now complete. 

You may begin, Jos. 
Jos. Take your seats. You all. 



128 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



[They sit down; Jos Fritz takes the chairmanship at the 
head of the table.} 
We should be fifteen. Are we all together ? 
3rd P. The crooked Stephen is not here. 
A Peas. I am! 

3rd P. We're then complete. 
4th P. Fifteen. 
Jos. Fifteen. None fails. 

Let's, then, begin. But first the door lock. 

[The inn-keeper steps to the door and turns the key, and re- 
turns to the table.'] 
My brothers! You are now assembled for 
The purpose of receiving my report. 
And also instructions for your further conduct. 
The hour now is near when — 

[Hard raps at the door; all listen with intent attention.] 
2nd P. Some one 

Is rapping! who could that be? 
Innk. I won't open. 

Other Peasants. Indeed, not! 

1st P. Yet it might attention call 

If you refuse to open. 

[The raps are repeated.] 
3rd P. Think of it! 

It might be spies! 
Jos. Then all the more would it 

Be necessary to admit the man. 

[Pointing significantly to his armed belt.] 

Dumbness — alone insures us against 

A spy's mouth. 
4th P. Yes, Jos Fritz! And if it such 

A scamp is — 

Jos. [Angrily.] Put your knife away, Hans Thoughtless ! 
You're always running over. 
[The raps continue; to the peasants.] 

All assume an 
Unconcerned mien, as though you sat 
Here comfortably drinking. 

[To the inn-keeper.] Now, you open. 
Innk. If so you will. 

Jos. Hold! Give me time to put 

On my disguise. 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



129 



[Re-assumes his plaster and false heard; the inn-keeper 
opens.] 

Scene IV. — Ulrich von Hutten; the former. 

See to my horse. 
[Exit inn-keeper; Ulrich steps forward.] 

This is 

A howling night! How much at one are both 
The weather and my breast! The rain beats down 
In torrents, and, torrential, rush sad thoughts 
Across my soul, all manly fortitude 
Unloos'ning. As the lightning's yellow sheen 
With hurried, flickering flash the darkness lights, 
Uncertainty shoots, painful, through my breast, 
In fear's glaring light revealing the 
Unknown condition of my friend. 

[While speaking, Ulrich has taken off his cap, mantle and 
gloves, and laid them on a table in the opposite corner 
where the peasants are seated; all the while these Jiav< 
affected to be engaged in general conversation, but care 
fully scrutinized Ulrich, Jos Fritz above all.] 
Jos. [To himself.] 

This knight, I think, I know. 
Ulrich. [To the inn-keeper who just re-enters.] 

Are you the inn-keeper? 
Innk. I am, if it please your worship. 
Ulrich. Fetch me quick 

Some wine. 
Innk. Yes, Sir. [Exit.] 

Jos. [Risen from his seat to obtain a better view of Ulrich, and 
stealthily walking around him while he stands lost in thought.] 
By God, may I be hanged 

If 'tis not he! 

[Draws nearer to Ulrich, and then steps back a few feet.] 
There is no doubt; 'tis he! 
What favorable accident! — To let 
The chance slip by, Jos Fritz, were stupid — aye, 
Decidedly more stupid than befits 
You! — How this meeting ripens suddenly 
To fullest bloom the misty thoughts, the plans 
I vaguely formulated, and the hopes 
I nursed in silence! Come! If one there be 



130 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



Who could on him prevail, 'tis he — and he 

The one who also has the will. If e'er 

The time was fit, 'tis now! Hew! Up, and at it!! 
[Approaches Ulrich determinately.] 
Ulrich. [To himself.'} 

The first night back again on German soil! — 

I may of service be to them, and may, 

Though meager, tidings gather from them here. 

[Looks up and sees Jos Fritz, who, quite near, is intently 
gazing at him; seizes the handle of his sword.] 

What do you want ? Back, if you please ! 
J 08. Sir knight, 

You do not recognize me? Speak, I pray! 
Ulrich. As little as, I hope, you do myself. 
Jos. How now, Sir knight! I should not know you, Sir? 

Not know the flower of your rank! The best 

Man in all Germany! But no; I will 

Not flatter you. There's one who lives, and who 

Your peer is ; and that one is also your 

Best friend. With pride, and not with envy, is, 

[Drawing still closer, and in a voice low enough not to be 
heard by the peasants."] 

Franciscus' praise fulfilled by Ulrich von Eutten. 
Ulrich. [Steps back amazed.] 

And who are you? 
Jos. Oh! I forgot you do 

Not see me now in all the splendor of 

My beauty. Excuse me. Soon I'll be myself. 

[Removes beard and plaster, which he throws upon the table 
of the peasants.] 

So, now, perhaps, your memory will serve 

You better. 
Ulrich. What! Is't you, Jos Fritz? 

Jos. The same! 

Ulrich. [Looking round.] 

Then keep an eye upon the tip-staves of 

The law. Not yet have they forgot your work 

At Lehen, nor much less at Untergrunenbach. 
Jos. Pshaw! Times have changed. Perhaps the time is nigh 

When Jos Fritz needs the tip-staves fear no more. 
Ulrich. At any rate, a better meeting I 

Could not have prearranged. You are, Jos Fritz, 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEtf. 



The trumpet of the realm, a veritable 
Guild-master of fresh news. Whatever, and 
Wherever, ever happed, oft e'en before 
It happed — you knew't. My soul's impatience 
You now can calm with tidings of Franciscus. 

Jos. Indeed, none could report more fully, Sir. 
I just have come from that vicinity. 
But whence come you that naught about your friend 
You know? 

Ulrich. I straight from Zurich come. 

Jos. Then truth 

Did Rumor spread, reporting thither you 
Had gone for help from the confederates 
For Franz? Did you succeed? 

Ulrich. I would, had not 

Ulrich of Wurtenberg — who an exile lives 
In Zurich, and, though banished, still a curse 
Is on the German people — burning still 
With hatred 'gainst Franciscus and myself — 
Succeeded, through his followers and strong 
Connections that he there enjoys, to thwart 
Me in securing from the Swiss the aid 
They pledged their word to give us. 

Jos. Better so! 

Ulrich. What? Better so, say you? 

Jos. Excuse me, Sir. 

My tongue tripped. All the worse, I meant to say. 

Ulrich. When I perceived that vain were my endeavors, 
I quitted Zurich to return to Franz, 
And to him lead my yearning steps. — But, now, 
Instead of yourself speaking, me you make 
To speak. Inform me how stand things with Franz? 

Jos. Another thing; how late have you from him 
Had news? 

Ulrich. The last reli'ble tidings that 

We had was that the palsgrave's lands he raided, 
And took by storm the strong place of Vorberg. 
Since then, no further message have we had. 

Jos. Yes, that was in the winter. But since then 
The tables turned. Before he knew, and long 
Before his army had assembled, all 
The three confederated Princes drew 



132 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



'Gainst Landstuhl, his own burg, in joint array. 

Ulrich. [Nervously.'] 

And was he inside? Could he not retreat 
To Ebernburg? 

Jos. He could! But did not do't. 

I think he now regrets that he did not. 
At first he held out well; he drove them back, 
And captured Henry of Elz, together with 
His whole brigade of mounted men. He then 
A jeering trumpeter sent out to them: 
New cannons had they, he new walls; he now 
Was curious to hear how that would sound 
Together. — Counting upon help and prompt 
Relief from his allies — 

Ulrich. [With increasing impatience.'] 

And what did they? 
The knights, the federation of Landau? 

Jos. But ever larger forces trooped into 

The Princes' camp. They locked him in, and met 
His wishes. His best batt'ries soon they shot 
To pieces — 

Ulrich. [Beyond control.] 

But his friends, his allies, where 

Were they? 

Jos. Oh, Sir! With them it all has changed. 

The larger number now are circumspect 
And doubtful; others not quite ready with 
Their armaments. The worst of all is that 
The trouble came too quick. Franz is not yet 
Supposed to be at such a frightful pass. 
The Furstenbergs — 

Ulrich. How? Also they have left 

Franciscus in the lurch? 

Jos. No. Listen, Sir! 

Two messengers he sent to them his stress 
Announcing, urging haste upon them. 
From them he surely help had got. But both 
Were caught — I happened then in camp to be, 
When in the second one was brought. — Sir, ne'er 
Have I such frantic joy beheld! By Franz 
Himself confirmed, the letter said that he 
Was lost, if quick, with th' others named therein, 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



133 



They did not come to his relief. 
Vlrich. Franz lost! 

May sooner heaven's vault upon us crash! 

[To the inn-keeper.'] 
Bring out my horse. The errand I myself 
Will ride, and in their burgs the sleepers wake! 
From burg to burg a dreadful cry I'll fling: — 
Franciscus is in danger! Out — 
Jos. Sir, control 

Yourself ! You could not travel far. You know — 
The ban is over you! Besides, your help 
Would come too late. E'en when I left, it stood 
So bad — Franz himself wrote it — Landstuhl could 
Not hold out two weeks longer. No, Sir! You 
Are now too late. The burg is lost. 
Vlrich. A curse 

Upon your head, that you of him and lost 
Can prate in one breath! Lost the burg, and Franz 
Within? ! — If so, I shall go down with him. 
My horse! — [Rushes to the door.] 
Jos. [Rushing after him.'] 

But listen, Sir! 
[Holds and leads him back by the arm.] 

Though he is lost, 
There still is help! Take hold — and with one blow, 
Is ev'ry thing from bottom up again 
Changed for the better. 
Vlrich. [Dazed.] Help, you say? Did I 

Correctly understand you? Help? 
Jos. Now, Sir; 

Please listen, and attentively. 

[Takes Vlrich by the arm, and speaking to him in a low 
voice leads him to the rear; at Jos Fritz's first whisp- 
ered words Vlrich shows signs of deep interest.] 
2nd P. What can 

Jos Fritz so much to say have to the knight? 
1st P. It seems important. Watch how urgently 
He talks into his ear. And the knight, 
Just look, can hardly hold himself. Jos throws 
Him into quite a splutter. 
3rd P. Be it what 

It may be, he will bring him over to his side. 



134 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



Not in the council of the Emperor, 

Is there a finer head than this Jos Fritz. 
1st P. Aye, that is so. Jos knows how. And 'tis one 

To him, a peasant or a knight. Where'er 

His hook he hitches, quick he bites him fast, 

And leads you at will, as th' angle does the fish 

That has bitten in the bait. 

[Jos Fritz and Ulrich walk back to the front, speaking in a 
low voice, but violently gesticulating. ] 
Ulrich. Is it no trick my ears to mislead? 

Most eighty thousand? Said you that? 
Jos. At least 

That many, that would forthwith rise. — I am 

No learned scribe. I could not neatly count 

Them down with ink and paper. But this much 

I tell you, and my head upon it, Sir: — 

As, when the powder lights, nothing remains 

Behind within the hollow of the cannon, 

But, rather, driven by the powder's vim, 

The complete load like hail does outward fly, 

So all the districts that I named are on 

The watch, impatiently await the signal; — 

In Allgau, Kraigau, Wasgau — all the districts 

That I before have named, together with 

Their teeming populations. Empty hollows, 

That's what the villages become; the land 

Is all alive, and like a wave it rolls. 

What is not quite a child, or has not quite 

Returned to childhood, grabs the halberd, and 

With cheers joins the march. And as before, 

When nations went in mass migrating, each 

One pushing on the one ahead, so now, 

One district th' other pushes, drags it 'long 

Unto the great Crusade, our people to 

Emancipate. 
Ulrich. And what conditions? 

Jos. One 

Alone; the one I told you of. He shall 

Be sworn our leader — he shall swear 

The articles, the twelve, which, like unto 

Jehovah in the fire-column, shall 

A blazing manifesto march before 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



135 



Us all! His standing, following and his 
Unrivalled military genius will 
Our power multiply. With such a head 
The issue of the game is certain to us. 
No better hour could we hope to see! 
Your Ziska tell, will he consent, his aye 
A fiery signal from the mountains will 
Descend unto the valleys, light the sky 
Of Germany, and burn our common foe 
To ashes. 
Ulrich. [Solemnly.'] 

In so far as one man may 
Speak for another, with my hand I'll now 
That aye pledge from the bottom of the breast 
Of Franz. — 

[Gives Jos Fritz his hand which is warmly grasped*] 
But how to penetrate to him? 
Jos. Leave that to me. I'll gain you admission to 

The burg in a disguise. Shall thither lead 

You, I myself, and at its foot await 

The answer you may bring. 
Ulrich. Let us start 

Upon the spot! 
Jos. This very night! 

Ulrich. No, now! 

Who can command the hour — who, but its 

Own master may dispose of it at will ? 
Jos. Well, as you will! — 
[To the peasants.] 

My friends, I hence must on the spot start with 

This knight. The hour of consultation is 

By the approaching act devoured. Great things 

Are on the stocks. Success's sun hangs o'er 

Our plan. Farewell! You'll soon hear more. But three 

Of you shall for a distance keep me company. 

I've many messages to expedite. 
Several Peasants. We're ready. Those of us that you appoint 

Will follow on your steps. Good luck, Jos Fritz! 
Others. Good luck! 

[Exit Jos Fritz and Ulrich, followed by all.] 

Scene V. — The previously described chamber in the burg of Land- 
stuhl. Franz entering from a side-room. 



136 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



Franz. [Lost in meditation.'] 

Not yet returned! Why lingers he? Like 
Lead the heavy minutes* paces drag along! — 
It is three hours since he left; to me 
Each one is lengthened to eternity, 
And each an endless train leads in its wake 
Of hopes and fears, to me bewild'ring maze. 

[Approaches a window in the tower, and stretches out his 
arm."] 

You yonder lie, my country, sunny and green; 
The land of my affection and my efforts! 
My spirit through this window's iron bar 
Floats down to you upon my vision's rays. 
He's right! These walls do not protection give, 
They part me from the Nation! Yonder does 
She wait, oppressed by heavy chains; she waits 
In patience that her saviour may arrive. 
Like arms the hills their lengths extend to me; 
They beck to me, and draw me to their heart! 
I come — my hand to it — I will, I will 
Come out to you! No power shall prevent me! 

Scene VI. — Balth as ar enters with downcast looks; Franz. 

Franz. [Stepping impatiently towards him.] 

At last you come! — but, friend, I plainly read 

The answer in your face. 
Balth. It is in vain! 

Their boiling hate has leaped all dam, and bluff 

They spurn the semblance e'en of moderation! 

Their hatred makes them blind, it at the same 

Time gives them sight, and wisdom's place assumes. 

'Tis you they want — and only you — they're deaf 

To aught that has not Franz for name. 
Franz. And what 

About the palsgrave? 
Balth. He ? The worst of all 

The three! His conscience goads him into rage. 

I plainly saw't. In short, they have but one 

Word, this: your unconditional surrender. 

They swore no other pact to make. 
Franz. I shall 

Surrender? — And yet you offered them 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



137 



The Ebernburg and other forts? 
Balth. No, Sir! 

My old eyes bored through their corselets thick 

Into their hearts, still harder than their corselets. 

It was in vain — and, hence, I nothing said. 
Franz. I thank you, my old friend! Thus honor's saved! 

An unconditional surrender? Do 

Their Arrogancies think I've shrunk so far? 

The fools! Still free does this arm feel itself. 
Balth. But listen, Sir! In coming back from thence, 

I learned the reason of their arrogance. 

Blindfolded was I led, but when I reached 

The bound'ry of the camp, and they removed 

My band, I turned my head to gaze 

Upon the field. I then saw, near a hedge, 

One of the masons, who engaged had been 

In this burg's fortifying. Quick he ducked 

His head, but I did hail him — trembling he 

Arose, and in the pallor of his face 

Lay the confession of his Judas act! 

Hence comes the spirit that each ball does lead; 

The secrets knowing of the burg, drives them 

Destructive to its weakest spots! When that 

I saw my head I dropped. Is this the case, 

How long can we hold out? 

[Steps towards Franz, and takes his hand with a painful 
expression.'] 

Whichever way 
My eyes in scrutiny I turn, escape, 
Sir, can I nowhere see — no — nowhere now! 
Franz. Oh, treason! That the Princes' weapon is? 
And thereon their Princes' pride is built! 
Drop not your eyes; look up, oh, Balthasar! 
A man's full force is in extreme emergencies 
Deployed, and paling fall away the fears 
That, earth-born, drag him down to earth. 
Up from the shipwreck of his shattered plans, 
Up from the ruins of his cunning, leaps 
His spirit in its native greatness. To 
The immensity of his own strength of will, 
That latent lies in him, he, waxing, turns; 
v With closed eyes inhales new strength ; draws in 



138 FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



New action from his own resources; and 

The total of his life upon one card 

He stakes. Unburdened thus, he leaps to deeds, 

That, lightning-like, in but a single instant 

The face of the inevitable change. 

You said by dint of cleverness I failed; 

Well, then, the deed, the bold one, shall redeem me! 
Balth. What is, Sir, now your plan? 
Franz. The morning sun 

Success announces smiling to my heart, 

And resolution's fire courses through 

My frame. I come, my country — 
Balth. [Anxiously.'] Speak! What do 

You contemplate? 

[Martial music is heard at a distance; both stop to listen.] 
Franz. Hear you? They approach! Themselves 

They give the signal unto me, and join 

In music with the feeling that within 

My breast is beating time. — 
An Armor-bearer. [Rushing in.] Sir knight, Oh arm 

Yourself! Along the whole line draws the foe. 

They are about the burg to take by storm. 
Franz. Thou iron! God of man! Thou magic wand, 

That turneth to reality his wishes! 

Thou last resource, that in despair's night 

Doest glisten on his eye, his freedom's highest 

Pledge! Now unto thy hand to I consign 

My fate. A hostile army's long array 

Its coils winds yonder round about me, and 

Still closer does reproach's coil constrict 

My breast. The double knot you are to cut; 

One of the two you'll cut assuredly! 

Scene VII.— The knight of Rudesheim armed cap-a-pie and with 
sword drawn, followed by several armor-bearers and soldiers. 
Close after him Marie, toho anxiously questions Balthasar 
and the armor-bearers. 

Rud. [Enters precipitately.] 

Have you been told? The en'my means to storm 
The burg. The ladder-carriers are approaching. 

Franz. [To his armor-bearer.] 
Bring me my helmet! 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



Marie. Father, I pray, do 

Not this time rush into the thickest of 

The fray. 
Franz. Keep still, my child! 

[To Rudesheim.] From which side are 

They approaching? 
Rud. The attack the main gate threats, 

And on the east strong observation squads 

Are posted. 

Franz. [Has in the meantime donned his helmet.] 
Good! Let William of Waldeck 

Lead the defence. — You, Rudesheim, with 

One half of the garrison, the moment that 

They hand to hand have come, a sally make 

From the small gate, and take th' assailants in 

The rear. — My horse and thirty trusty men 

Keep at the garden-gate for me. When with 

Your sally you have drawn upon yourself 

The bulk of th' en'my's forces and his eye, 

I forth will rush — escape! 
Marie [Screaming.] Oh, father! Father! 

Franz. I may, perhaps, the near woods gain without 

Encount'ring opposition. Do I so, 

You'll hear from me. Whatever bars my way 

Must be broke through. For death must ev'ry man 

Be ready who accomp'nies me. Now, Rudesheim, 

My word I keep. — / ivill go out! 
Rud. Your plan 

Be blessed! You out, and I upon the foe! 

My men, now follow me! 

[Rushes off with all the soldiers and armor-bearers, but 
who remain with Franz.] 
Marie. [Falling on her father's neck.] 

Oh, father, I 

Conjure you! Pray venture not without! 

So few men — God — anxiety my blood 

Does freeze! Regard my sad presentiments! 

It will not turn out well — 
Franz. [Kindly.] Be still, Marie. 

Balth. No, hold him back! I also feel assailed 

With ill forebodings. Yet — he'd better go! 

Should it succeed — Oh, Germany, this day 



140 



FRANZ VOft ZICKINGEN. 



A lustrous one would be! 

[The martial music draws nearer.] 
Marie. [Clinging more and more passionately to Franz's neck, while 
he seeks to disengage himself.] 

I shall not let 
You go! Oh, father, I beseech you! 
Franz. [Forcing himself from Marie's arms.] 

My child, be still! Me calls the fatherland, 

And feverish my heart-beats answer, Aye. 

Your fate to kindly Powers I confide; 

They summon me who vengeance wreck on Wrong. 

I come, my country! Ransom now my flesh 

Of earthly fault, vainglorious feebleness! 

If I the wall drew 'tween yourself and me, 

'Tis now for me to dare to break it through! 

[Exit precipitately with drawn sword, followed by the two 
armor-bearers; Marie falls to the floor.] 

Scene VIII. — Balthasab; Marie. 

Balth. [Rushing to the aid of Marie.] 

For heaven's sake, young lady! Oh, collect 

Yourself. The courage that you ever showed, 

Preserve it now. 
Marie. [Slowly rising.] 

Oh, Balthasar ! Ne'er yet 

Was I a prey to such anxiety! 

[Takes a step forward with clasped hands, distracted,] 

How if I now have for the last time seen 

My father! 

Balth. No, young lady; no. You'll see 

Your father surely again. Allow not that 

Such phantoms should preoccupy your mind. 
Marie. Oft has my father gone to battle, yet 

Ne'er was my heart so full of sad forbodings. 

One blow decides the fate of both. 
Balth. Of both? 

Whom else mean you? 
Marie. [Starting up and looking around.] 

Could I but outside fly 

And hover over him; could but my eye 

Lead him; my cry would give him warning. 
Balth. Oh I 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



Young lady, do you rave? Collect yourself, 
I pray you! Come — and take this seat. 

[Leads her to a settee,'] Myself 
Shall climb to that entablature. The field 
Is swept from th' upper windows. All I see 
I'll let you know. My faithful eyes shall serve 
You for a field-glass. 

[Clirtibs up to a higher window.'] 

Ha! Already does 
Our Rudesheim spread death in th' en'my's rear. 
Ha! How he with his grim men hammers them 
In bloody rout! He drives them to the wall! 
There Waldeck mows them down in rows with his 
Stone slingers. Frightful does the battle rage! 

Marie. And of my father, see you aught ? 

Balth. Not yet. 

The en'my's reinforced. 
[In great excitement.] 

And Rudesheim 
Divides his forces. With one half he drives 
Them to the ditch. Oh! Woe! No longer do 
I see him. All are thrown together. At 
The main gate thickest is the knot of men. 
The ladders are by Waldeck beaten down. 
Ha! There's Rudesheim! His sword a wide 
Swath cuts. Oh! Bravo, sturdy fellow! Bravo! 
That was a blow! He drops. 

Marie. Who drops? 

Balth. The knight 

William von Zabern. Ah! the en'my's ranks 

Are wav'ring. Lo! lo! Yonder with his men 

Your father turns the corner! Victory! 
A hundred paces more, and safe the wood 
They reach! The road is clear! 

Marie. [Leaping up.] Oh, God! 

Balth. [In consternation.] Woe! Woe! 

What do I see! From out the woods a troop 
Of riders forward rush! They've noticed him. 
Upon him straight they ride. 

Marie. Oh, God in heaven! 

Balth. They're seventy or eighty! Swords are crossed. 
Your father runs their leader through. 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



[Stamping unth his foot.'] Flee, Franz! 

Oh, drop your magnanimity! 'Tis now 
Too late. The ranks are at close quarters drawn. 
Like lions do our men defend themselves, 
Despite the en'my's greater numbers. 
Marie. Do 

You see him still? 
Balth. Ha! Rudesheim has seen 

His plight. At full tilt does he hasten with 
A goodly squad to aid him. Could he fly ! 
The distance still is long! Woe! Franz's plumage 
I see no more. 

[Marie utters a cry of anguish.] 

Yes! Yes! There! There he is, 
I think. The walFs edge intercepts my view. 
I'll to the roof where with one look the field 
Of battle can be taken in. 
[Descends rapidly.] 
Marie. Wringing her hands. No ! No ! ! 

No, Balthasar! 
Balth. I must unto the roof — my whole existence is 

Compressed within my eyes. Young lady — pray! [Exit.] 
Marie. [Calling after him.] 

Stay, Balthasar! Oh, Balthasar! — He's gone! 

Alone he leaves me in this agony 

Of death! My limbs are trembling. Vainly I seek 

My feet to raise. I'm paralysed. A load 

Of hundred weights my body presses down. 

Aye, pray! I'll pray! [Falls on her knees.] 

If yonder 'hind the clouds 
A Father thrones who feelingly looks down 
Upon our woes; who pity takes upon 
Our human sorrows — He will now reveal 
Himself to me. Oh! If a kindly Providence 

Our fates leads lovingly How did he say? 

The individual stands on chance's powder magazine; 
Exploding — Woe, if now that powder magazine 
Beneath my father should explode! 

[Her head drops on her oreast 9 and she covers it with her 
hands; deep silence; presently, triumphal music re- 
sounds behind the scene; Marie raises her head.] 

Hark! Hark!! 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



143 



What was that signal? Victory comes from 

The trumpets of our side. Could it be possible? 
[Rises quickly and looks behind.] 
Balth. [Entering,'] 

Young lady, heaven's heart is obdurate. 
Marie. What say you? Why like lead your face sinks down 

Upon your breast? Our men have signaled victory! 
Balth. Aye, victory! The attack has been repulsed; 

And bleeding is the en'my driven back 

To camp. But ten times sweeter were defeat 

Than victory so dearly paid for — 

They deadly wounded carry back your father. 

Scene IX. — Funeral march behind the scene. While Balthasab 
hastens to the aid of Maeie, who at his last icords is about to 
fall to the floor, and holds her up, the door opens and wrapt in 
a cloak the body of the deadly wounded Sickingen is carried 
in upon a cot. Rudesheim, Waldeck, the Physician, knights, 
armor-bearers and soldiers follow. The cot is placed to the right 
of the scene. 

Franz. Marie! 

Marie. My father! 

[She flies with outstretched arms to him, kneels down be* 
side the cot and throws her arms around his neck.] 
Franz. Dear, sweetest child! 

Forgive, if for one moment more I keep 
Myself from you. I soon will yours be. 
Is Rudesheim — 
Rud. Franz ! 

Franz. Do you think the foe 

Knows how it stands with met 
Rud. They could not that; 

Not even if the knights had recognized 

You. When we extricated you, you still 

Sat fighting on your horse, and not until 

They fled, did you of loss of blood drop from 

Your horse. We carried you in our midst 

While the en'my was sounding the retreat. 

They hardly could so soon have learned it. 
Franz. Good! 

And where is the physician? 
Phys. [Stepping forward.] Here I am! 



144 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



Franz, I saw thee tremble when thou bandageth 

My wounds. Now -freely speak: — can I be saved? 

And how much longer can I live? 
Phys. [Hesitating.] Sir — I — 

Franz. I want the truth. Upon thy conscience now 

I lay it. Many nobles' freedom hangs 

Upon thy word. 
Phys. [With an effort.'] You can — 
Franz. I order thee 

To speak! 

Phys. You can not e'en this night survive. 

[A thrill of dismay runs through the ranks of those present ; 
Marie smothers her sobs in the cushion of the cot.] 
Franz. Well, then — 

Once more, and for a last time, now I shall 

Outwit them. Rudesheim, the herald send 

To the enemy: I will the burg surrender, 

Myself a prisoner will yield, upon 

Condition they allow all those within, 

Myself excepted, to withdraw. But forthwith 

A decision they must give. Time to think 

I shall refuse. If they accept, the gates 

Throw open. Long I do not wish to be 

Their prisoner. [Exit Rudesheim.] 
Marie, I now belong 

To you, my child! Oh, weep not! Grieve not o'er 

My fate. We owe to life the purposes 

To which the race is consecrated as 

Mere artisans their task to fill. I've done 

All that I could, and feel at ease and free, 

As one who faithfully a great debt paid. 

My mind falls back up©n my life's career, 

And speaks me clean of selfish sentiment. 

My name will live in memory, and bards 

Will some day join me to the hosts of those 

Who battled for the noblest aims of man — 

And thus I gladly die — and therefore — do not grieve. 
Marie. [Embracing him deliriously.] 

Oh, father, no! You shall not go! I can 

The thought not bear of leaving you! 
Franz. My child! 

My outward fortune — that I leave in ruins. 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



145 



But never on external things your mind 
Was set. As heritance my name remains 
To you. I bid you carry't worthily, 
As, well I know, you will. Alone one thought 
Oppresses me, and makes it hard to die — 
Oh, could I see him once again, and peace 
Draw from my Ulrich's noble face! 

[Marie sobs violently.'] On it 

Whatever noble deed I contemplated 
In brilliant incarnation met my eyes, 
And as the mirror of my soul he stood 
Before me! Much I fear — a heavy blow 
Will this news be to him. Console him, child! 
Tell him with blessings, with rich blessings, have 
I in this life's last moments thought of him. 
Tell him that no reproach must he on my 
Account make to himself. I thank him for 
This death, the handsome closing of my life; 
I thank him for the better part of my 
Existence. 

Herald. [Enters.] Sir! The en'my have accepted 

The offer that you made. The burg, that still 

This day shall be your own, to-morrow they 

Will occupy. But close upon my steps 

The Princes follow. They're approaching. 
[Trumpets sound.] 
Franz. Rise, 

Marie! Your tears dry. The en'my may 

Not see Franciscus' daughter weep. Be brave, 

My child! 

Scene X. — Second blare of trumpets. Enter the three Princes — the 
Palsgeave Ludwig, Philip of Hesse and the Archbishop of 
Treves — preceded by the Palsgrave. 

Lud. [Precipitately.] 

Is Franz himself here? 
Balth. [Stepping briskly towards him.'] 

Sir, respect before 

The dying! 
Lud. Dying ! 

[His eyes fall upon Franz, and he staggers back; commotion 
among the Princes.'] 



146 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEtf. 



Never have I thought, 
Franciscus, that my eyes would thus behold 
You! 

Franz. No? No more did I! And would you now 
Swear off, now that 'tis done, the consequence 
Of your own acts? Repudiate the fruit 
Of grasping treason? Go! I loathe your sight. 
Upon the altars of your envious pride, 
That swells your breast, you've immolated all 
The duties gratitude commands, betrayed 
Your house's most devoted friend. And thus 
May on your house my fate eventually 
Avenged be. Before a hundred years 
Have passed away, may in the strife, that I 
A frightful heritage behind me leave, 
Tour scion, wretched and pursued by foes 
Forsaken, like myself, from all his friends, 
Flee through the land a beggar, fitly thus 
Your house's real splendor seal. .Begone! 
— A Nemesis holds sway on earth; upon 
Your heads, ye Princes, I conjure her wrath. 

Phil. Your scores with Ludwig do not me concern; 
I ever was your foe; you ever mine. 

Franz. You can the voice of conscience not deceive, 
Nor yet can you deceive th' avenging goddess. 
Are you not Hesse's Philip, Luther's friend? 
And yet yon Romanist you shield, and helped 
To run me down, who Luther's strongest prop 
Defiantly stood up? Unbridled, a 
Corroding selfishness transported you ; 
Your own advantage weighed far more than did 
With you the common weal. Hence may yourself 
The penalty yet pay for your misdeed, 
In deepest mis'ry mourn that him you felled, 
Whom to replace you'll never have the strength. 

Arch. Perhaps, also for me you have reserved 
Some little text? 

Franz. Archbishop ! — Not with you my quarrel is. 
Not words between us can decide. Besides, 
With long and rapid strides — I feel it at 
My heavy breathing — death is drawing nigh* 
Yet triumph not. — Not with you victory 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



147 



Remains. The seed in blood sprouts up — awaked 

Among the masses is the cry of conscience. 

Or soon or late — your dirge song it will be. 

[During the last lines Rudesheim enters and speaks privately 
and pressingly to Balthasar and Marie*] 
Marie [Animatedly stepping forward.] 

Ye Princes! Almost providential does 

It seem that at this time a pious monk 

Has come into the burg. The favor grant 

That we my father leave with him; he might, 

Perhaps, my father to confession move. 
Franz. [With weaker voice.] 

Confess — I will not — have myself — 

[Balthasar makes covert signs to him.] 
Marie. Princes ! 

He may yet to his daughter's wishes yield, 

If of your presence he's relieved. 
Franz. I will — 

Not — do you hear — 
Lud. The maiden's prayer's reasonable. Far 

From us the purpose be to stand between 

Himself and God. Ye Princes, let's withdraw. 

Let all with us retire who are not 

Of Franz's household. 

[Exeunt Princes and suites, simultaneously and by another 
door Balthasar.] 

Scene XI. — The former; soon after Balthasar with Ulrich von 
Hutten. ZJlrich is dressed as in the third scene, out now with 
a monk's cloak over him s which on entering he throws back 
upon his shoulders.] 

Ulrich. [Behind the scenes.] 

Wounded did you say? [Enters.] 

His iron sinews mock at wounds; and this 

Is not the time for wounds. 
Franz. [Has half risen at the first sound of Ulrich's voice, and 

quickly calls to him.] 

Oh, Ulrich, you! 
Ulrich. I've come, Franz; and I bring a mass of news 
Most favorable! Notified by messengers, 
That I sent out, of your distress, our friends 
Are arming to assist you powerfully. 



143 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



Franz. [Sinking back upon his cot.'] 

Too— late! 
Vlrich [Stops bewildered.] Too late? 

[Looks inquiringly around at the circle surrounding Franz.] 
The burg has been surrendered? 

A murmur told me so, as I in haste 

Came up the stairs. — But even so! What care 

We for the place! But you, have you yourself 

A prisoner surrendered? 

[Gazes xoildly at the surrounding group, who drop their 
heads.] So it is! 

I read the confirmation in their looks. 

Well, then! Still better tidings do I bring. 

Make ready, Franz, to learn from me great things. 

The time has come. The peasant draws the sword! 

He wants you for his leader, Franz ! By him 

Commissioned, stand I now before you. Say 

The word — an army, hundred thousand strong, 

He'll place at your command. The land will rise! 

They will not long hold you a prisoner. 

Allow that from this tower's height a sign 

I give, and long before they to their burgs 

Have taken you — before their camp they break, 

The flood will swallow them; 'twill close o'er them, — 

Their squadrons, both of horse and foot — as does 

The raging sea close over drowning men! 

[Intently looking upon Franz, JJlrich pauses for an answer.] 
Franz. Too late — you speak, Oh Ulrich, to the — dead! 
Vlrich. [Staggers back; looks around as if searching for confirma- 
tion; all drop their heads in utter dejectment ; Vlrich staggers 

a few steps toward Franz, but before reaching him drops doion 

with a piercmg cry.] 

Dead! 

Franz. [Painfully and in a broken voice.] 

Ulrich — thanks — that once again I see 
You — now my wish has been — fulfilled — but now — 
No longer tarry — quit the burg — they might 
Return — the Princes — go — they'd capture you — 
Do not my death make hard — the effort lent 
It wings — but few more minutes shall I live — 
Go! Ulrich! Go! — inflict not on my mind, 
My breaking eyes, the pain a prisoner 



FRANZ VON ZICKINGEN. 



149 



To see you — save yourself — for better days— 

For our cause — I beg you — go — my voice — 

I can — no more — tell him, Marie — move him— 
Marie. [Approaching Ulrich.~] 

Ulrich ! From you I comfort thought to draw ; 

And I must strength and comfort give to you? 
Ulrich. [Rises slowly and speaks solemnly.'] 

Be still, Marie! — and do not desecrate 

With petty comfort such a pond'rous pain. 

You lose a father — I the souVs companion. 

E'en so there might be comfort — were naught else concerned! 

With this man our fatherland breaks down. 

In death's throes lie the hopes that we lived for. 

— With his death, impotent the nobles will 

Draw back afraid, and bend before the Princes, 

Who masterful the realm in pieces tear; — 

To Princes flunkeys they will soon descend! 

— Deprived of his support, himself mistrusting, 

The townsman will be absorbed within the web 

Of his peculiar interests, and lost 

Is he to our Nation's broader sense. — 

— Alone the peasant true remains to our 

Great Cause; he takes up arms — but on his own 

Resources thrown, he to the slaughter-house, 

The bloody, only drags his body; and 

His quartered limbs the broad face of our land, 

With horror struck, from end to end will cover! 

On his own property the Right of Conquest 

High carnival will lead, will strip from him 

The last shreds that of freedom still he enjoys. — 

A long night falls upon our heads, the sad 

Fate of this country in its sable veil 

Concealing. — 

[Turning to Franz. ~\ 

Thou diest, and thou carriest to thy grave 

Whatever worthy of living this life made. 

Me now, my errant feet to exile take; 

But not for long; a few weeks more, and then — 

My ashes joined will be unto your dust. 

To future days I our revenge bequeathe. 

[Staggers towards the door; the curtain closes.'] 

THE END. 



One copy del. to Cat. Div. 



